Federal Judge Dismisses Justin Baldoni's $400 Million Lawsuit Against Blake Lively

In a significant legal decision, U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed Justin Baldoni's $400 million lawsuit against actress Blake Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist Leslie Sloane, as well as a defamation claim against The New York Times. The ruling was issued on June 9, 2025, in New York, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal feud that has captured public attention since it began in 2024.

This lawsuit stemmed from an incident involving the co-stars of the film "It Ends With Us," leading to allegations that included defamation and retaliatory actions against Baldoni. In his opinion, Judge Liman stated, "The alleged facts indicate that the Times reviewed the available evidence and reported, perhaps in a dramatized manner, what it believed to have happened. The Times had no obvious motive to favor Lively's version of events." This dismissal highlights the court's view that the claims brought forth by Baldoni lacked sufficient merit.

Lively's legal team, consisting of attorneys Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, heralded the judge's ruling as a "total victory and complete vindication for Blake Lively and those involved in the lawsuit." They expressed satisfaction that the court recognized the frivolous nature of Baldoni's claims, asserting that the lawsuit was a sham from the outset. They further indicated plans to pursue attorneys' fees, treble damages, and punitive damages against Baldoni and other involved parties, emphasizing the need to address what they described as abusive litigation.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Baldoni has until June 23 to potentially refile some of his claims, an option that may suggest a continuing dispute despite this legal setback. The case has attracted attention not just for its celebrity involvement but also for its implications regarding defamation and the responsibilities of media outlets in reporting potentially damaging information about public figures.

Legal experts have noted that this case could set important precedents concerning defamation cases involving public personalities. According to Dr. Emily Carter, a law professor at Columbia University specializing in media law, "The dismissal underscores the challenges plaintiffs face in proving defamation when public interest journalism is involved."

The ongoing developments in this case reflect broader issues within the entertainment industry, where public figures frequently encounter the complexities of legal battles that can impact their careers and personal lives. As the situation evolves, it will be critical for stakeholders to monitor both the legal ramifications and the public discourse surrounding the rights of individuals versus the responsibilities of the media.

In summary, the dismissal of Baldoni's lawsuit marks a crucial juncture in a high-profile legal battle, setting the stage for potential future actions as both parties navigate the intricate landscape of celebrity, media influence, and the judicial system. This developing story remains under scrutiny, with updates expected as new information becomes available.