The ongoing legal conflict between actress Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni, known for his work on “It Ends with Us,” has revealed a robust network of support for Lively throughout the filming of the anticipated film. Recent unsealed court documents have brought attention to her enduring friendship with pop icon Taylor Swift, shedding light on the troubling allegations Lively has made about her experiences on set.
Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment, alleging that he devised a plan to tarnish her reputation. The legal documents submitted to the U.S. District Court in Manhattan disclose that Lively sought comfort from Swift, whom she described as a longtime friend, humorously referring to Baldoni as her “doofus director.” In light of increasing media scrutiny regarding the on-set dynamics, Swift remarked that Baldoni appeared to be anticipating issues, alluding to a social media post in which he discussed his past trauma.
Swift’s reflections drew a parallel between Lively’s ordeal and a horror story that slowly unfolds. The court documents indicate that concerns regarding Baldoni’s behavior were noted as early as Spring 2023, with Lively’s legal representatives claiming that Wayfarer Studios was aware of the accusations yet opted to retaliate against those who came forward instead of pursuing an investigation.
In defense of Baldoni, his legal team has contended that there is no evidence to support Lively’s claims, asserting confidence that the legal process will ultimately clear their client’s name. The situation escalated following a New York Times article that detailed the alleged misconduct, prompting Baldoni to launch a lawsuit against the publication for inaccuracies and accusing Lively of perpetuating a “self-serving narrative.”
In reaction to these allegations, Lively took additional legal steps against Baldoni, which led to him filing a defamation suit against her and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, claiming that they conspired to damage his career. Nonetheless, these lawsuits were dismissed by a judge in June 2025.
Swift became an unintended participant in the legal saga when her name arose in text message exchanges related to the case. Although Baldoni sought to have Swift testify, a judge ruled against him in September 2025. The strong bond between Lively and Swift is well-documented, with Swift serving as the godmother to Lively and Reynolds’ daughters, highlighting the depth of their friendship.
Moreover, unsealed documents have revealed that other cast members, including Jenny Slate, voiced similar frustrations regarding the filming conditions, describing the environment as “really gross and disturbing.”
As this intricate legal drama continues to evolve, the solidarity demonstrated by Lively, Swift, and their allies underscores the significant challenges actors face in the fluctuating landscape of Hollywood. While the resolution of this case remains uncertain, the circumstances illuminate both the pressures within the entertainment industry and the unwavering strength of supportive friendships during trying times.