Actor Blake Lively has filed a legal complaint in California against her former co-star and director Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and asserting that there was a coordinated public relations scheme to tarnish her reputation. The complaints surfaced following the production of their recent film, “It Ends with Us,” which premiered this August.
According to Lively’s allegations, incidents during filming escalated to the point where a meeting was convened, attended by Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, to discuss her claims of a hostile work environment. Lively and Reynolds insisted that Baldoni cease inappropriate behavior, which included showing nude videos or discussing sexual topics in her presence. They also requested that Baldoni refrain from mentioning Lively’s father, who has passed away, and inquiring about her weight. Lively further stipulated that she would not be asked to film any additional sex scenes beyond those initially approved.
The complaint alleges that after these demands were agreed upon by the studio, Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios engaged in a “social manipulation” campaign aimed at disparaging Lively’s image. This purported plan involved spreading negative theories on online forums and creating unfavorable narratives in the media. Lively’s complaint also claims that Baldoni altered the marketing strategy for the film to incorporate material related to domestic violence in an attempt to safeguard his own reputation.
Lively expressed hope that her legal action would expose harmful retaliatory tactics and help safeguard those who might face similar experiences. In response, Baldoni’s lawyer strongly denied these allegations, labeling them as false and an effort by Lively to amend her own tarnished reputation stemming from prior conduct during the film’s promotional activities.
The promotion of “It Ends with Us,” based on Colleen Hoover’s novel about romantic relationships intertwined with domestic violence, began turbulently, with Baldoni notably absent from several promotional events. Reports suggested internal conflicts among filmmakers, along with the release of an awkward 2016 interview featuring Lively that resurfaced online and fueled speculation about her behavior during the campaign.
The situation continues to develop, highlighting the complexities of Hollywood collaborations and the necessity for safe, respectful working environments in the entertainment industry.
This incident signifies a vital moment in considering the broader implications of workplace dynamics, especially in creative fields. As more individuals step forward to share their experiences, a path toward substantial change may emerge, advocating for safer and more equitable industry practices.