Home / Arts and Entertainment / Judge Tosses Lively's Harassment Claims Against Baldoni
Judge Tosses Lively's Harassment Claims Against Baldoni
2 Apr
Summary
- Judge dismissed sexual harassment claims due to independent contractor status.
- Retaliation claims against Baldoni remain intact.
- Judge noted conduct occurred within a movie scene context.
A federal judge in New York has dismissed sexual harassment claims brought by actor Blake Lively against her co-star Justin Baldoni concerning their roles in the film "It Ends With Us." Judge Lewis J. Liman ruled on Thursday that Lively, as an independent contractor, could not pursue these claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protects employees from workplace discrimination.
The judge clarified that while Baldoni's alleged actions during filming, such as kissing Lively's forehead and leaning into her neck, might constitute harassment in a traditional workplace, they were viewed differently within the creative context of a movie scene. Liman stated that creative artists require space to experiment, and Baldoni's actions, especially if improvised, were not deemed sufficiently beyond reasonable expectations for a scene.
Despite the dismissal of sexual harassment claims, the judge allowed two retaliation claims filed by Lively against Baldoni to proceed. A trial is scheduled to commence on May 18, with jury selection discussions already underway. Previously, Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios had countersued Lively and Ryan Reynolds, alleging defamation and extortion, but these claims were dismissed by the judge in June.
"It Ends With Us," released in August 2024, adapted from Colleen Hoover's novel, achieved a $50 million opening weekend at the box office. The film's release was accompanied by speculation regarding discord between Lively and Baldoni.
