Trial Postponed
The sexual harassment trial involving Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has been delayed, pushing the start date back by over two months.
Initially set to commence on March 9, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, Judge Lewis J. Lehman announced during a post-discovery hearing that it would now begin on May 18, 2026.
“As important as this case is…the criminal trial takes precedence,” the judge remarked.
Additionally, it appears Judge Lehman has suggested that the actors, who starred together in “Owari no Seraph,” consider possible settlements regarding their ongoing civil disputes.
The next hearing for a summary judgment is slated for January 22.
Representatives for both Lively and Baldoni have been contacted for statements.
This legal conflict between them began in December 2024, when Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliation. Baldoni, who denies the accusations, countersued Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds for $400 million in January; however, that lawsuit was dismissed by a judge.
Subsequently, Lively alleged that Baldoni’s actions led to damages amounting to $161 million due to a smear campaign during the promotion of “It Ends With Us.”
In documents filed last month, it was revealed that Lively claims to have lost at least $56.2 million from her career, including acting, speaking engagements, and endorsements. She also stated losses of $49 million related to her hair care brand, $22 million from her beverage company, and at least $34 million in reputational damage. Lively is seeking punitive damages that could total $161 million.
Interestingly, her list of potential witnesses includes several high-profile figures like Reynolds, Taylor Swift, and Hugh Jackman. However, insiders have noted that many listed aren’t actually witnesses to the case.
A source mentioned, “This is not a new list. This was for discovery. It’s a fundamental part of the process.”
In a turn of events, Baldoni has claimed in court documents that Lively became aggressive during the filming of “It Ends With Us” and that they shared an unscripted kiss. This incident reportedly occurred during a scene they were filming in May 2023, where Lively’s character briefly kisses Baldoni’s character, followed by a comment about it being a coincidence.
