New York, June 9, 2025 – U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman has dismissed Justin Baldoni’s sweeping $400 million defamation and extortion lawsuit filed against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist Leslie Sloane. Baldoni, who directed and co-starred alongside Lively in It Ends With Us, alleged a coordinated smear campaign driven by false sexual misconduct claims. newsweek.com+2mindfood.com+2timesofindia.indiatimes.com+2
In the same decision, Judge Liman rejected Baldoni’s separate $250 million defamation lawsuit against The New York Times. The judge applied both the “fair report” and privilege doctrines, concluding that Lively’s harassment complaint—and the Times’ coverage—are legally protected. cbr.com+14theguardian.com+14nypost.com+14
🔍 Key Takeaways:
- Protected Speech: Judge Liman ruled Lively’s sexual harassment accusations, filed with the California Civil Rights Department in December 2024, are privileged and hence immune from defamation claims. pagesix.com
- Failed to Prove Malice: The court found Baldoni’s allegations that Reynolds, Sloane, and the Times knowingly spread falsehoods insufficient under the actual‑malice standard required in defamation cases. thenews.com.pk+15theguardian.com+15news.com.au+15
- Partial Refile Option: While his main lawsuits were dismissed, Baldoni retains the chance to amend and refile claims related to alleged contract interference by June 23. en.wikipedia.org+5theguardian.com+5nypost.com+5
Reactions & Next Moves
Lively & Reynolds: Lively’s legal representatives, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, called the decision a “total victory and a complete vindication.” They confirmed plans to seek attorneys’ fees, treble damages, and punitive relief for what they described as an abusive and retaliatory lawsuit.
Blake Lively: Speaking out after the ruling, Lively underscored her support for women’s rights and freedom to speak out without fear or intimidation. She emphasized a commitment to ensuring “every woman has the right to have a voice.”
Marvel: In a related twist, Judge Liman granted Marvel’s request to be removed from the lawsuit. Baldoni had subpoenaed internal documents about the Deadpool & Wolverine character Nicepool, alleging it was used to mock him—but the court deemed the request irrelevant post-dismissal.
What Comes Next
- Amended Filing: Baldoni may submit an amended complaint by June 23, though it can include only narrower interference-based claims.
- Appeals Ahead: Either party may appeal the dismissal to the U.S. Second Circuit.
- Original Lawsuit Unresolved: A separate case, Lively v. Wayfarer Studios, originally filed by Lively, remains scheduled for trial in March 2026.
📌 Summary
Judge Liman’s ruling sharply limits Baldoni’s legal action by affirming protections around harassment complaints and news reporting. While Lively and Reynolds claim vindication, the case’s remaining threads—potential contract interference claims, possible appeal, and the distinct harassment lawsuit—ensure the dispute isn’t over yet.
