Actor and director Justin Baldoni’s $400 million lawsuit against co-star Blake Lively has been officially dismissed after he failed to meet a court deadline. The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman on October 17, 2025, ends Baldoni’s counterclaim involving Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and other parties. The dismissal marks the latest turn in a high-profile Hollywood legal dispute that began following the release of their 2024 film It Ends With Us.
The case between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively stems from competing lawsuits filed after the pair’s collaboration on It Ends With Us.
Lively initially accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and defamation in December 2024. In response, Baldoni sued her, Reynolds, and others for civil extortion, invasion of privacy, and defamation, claiming they orchestrated a campaign to harm his reputation.
However, the court ruled in June 2025 that Baldoni’s claims lacked sufficient evidence. He was granted an opportunity to refile, but by mid-October, Judge Liman confirmed that no amended complaint had been submitted. Only Lively’s legal team responded, requesting final judgment and preservation of her claim for attorney fees, which the court approved.
Quotes and Legal Reactions
Following the earlier June ruling, Lively’s lawyers hailed it as “a total victory and complete vindication.”
Baldoni’s representatives countered that “the facts are on our side” and hinted at submitting refined allegations, which ultimately never occurred.
No new comment has been issued by Baldoni or his production company Wayfarer Studios following this latest dismissal.
What It Means for Both Stars
The dismissal deals a significant blow to Justin Baldoni’s efforts to counter the allegations made by Blake Lively.
Legal experts note that failing to amend the complaint effectively closes the case, removing one of Baldoni’s primary defenses in the ongoing dispute. Meanwhile, Lively’s original harassment and defamation lawsuit remains active, potentially prolonging the broader legal saga surrounding the two stars.
Industry analysts say the case could affect future collaborations or promotional activities tied to It Ends With Us and potentially influence public perception of both actors within Hollywood circles.
What’s Next
The next major development is expected from Blake Lively’s ongoing lawsuit, which continues to move through the courts. A hearing date has not yet been confirmed.
Observers anticipate statements from Baldoni’s camp in the coming weeks as his team assesses potential next steps, including appeals or private settlements.
