Blake Lively Demands $161M Over ‘It Ends With Us’ Smear – Hollywood Shocked

Blake Lively has filed legal documents claiming $161 million in damages stemming from a smear campaign during the release of her film It Ends With Us. The lawsuit, scheduled for trial in March 2026, alleges financial and reputational harm affecting her career, personal brand, and business ventures. The case targets co-star and director Justin Baldoni, producer Jamey Heath, studio head Steve Sarowitz, and their publicists. Lively’s team says the damages figure is preliminary, pending expert testimony, and could increase.

Alleged Financial and Business Losses

Lively’s attorneys claim she has lost at least $56.2 million in earnings from acting, producing, speaking engagements, and endorsements. Her beauty brand, Blake Brown, reportedly lost $49 million, while her beverage company, Betty Buzz/Betty Booze, lost $22 million due to reputational damage. The lawsuit also cites $34 million in harm to her public image, tied to approximately 65 million negative social media impressions.

The initial lawsuit, filed on December 31, 2024, stated damages exceeded $75,000. The updated disclosure, now public, lists $161 million in actual damages, with attorneys seeking at least triple that in punitive damages.

Legal Reactions and Statements

Gregory Doll, Lively’s attorney, described the damages as strategic estimates to encourage settlement. “These are wish list numbers,” he said, emphasizing that the figures are meant to motivate the opposing side.

On the other side, Justin Baldoni previously claimed $400 million in damages due to alleged defamation by Lively. That claim was dismissed in June after the court ruled he could not sue over statements made in a legal context.

Celebrity Witnesses and Industry Impact

The lawsuit lists numerous high-profile Hollywood figures as potential witnesses, including Taylor Swift, Emily Blunt, Scooter Braun, Hugh Jackman, Gigi Hadid, Sony Pictures chairman Tony Vinciquerra, and Sony film chief Tom Rothman. Few, if any, are expected to testify.

The case highlights the risks of online harassment and reputational harm in the film industry. Depending on trial outcomes, it could influence Lively’s future projects, partnerships, and the broader conversation on celebrity online safety.

Upcoming Trial and Next Steps

Blake Lively’s trial is set for March 2026. Attorneys will present evidence of financial losses, reputational harm, and expert testimony supporting damages. Pre-trial motions, settlement discussions, and debates over celebrity witness participation are expected in the coming months.

Sources

• Variety

• Yahoo Entertainment

• Court filings and public legal disclosures