Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively have finally reached a settlement in their high-profile legal battle over the film It ends with usavoiding what was set to be a very public trial.
In a joint statement released through their lawyers on Monday, May 4, the couple confirmed that they have reached an agreement just weeks before jury selection was due to begin.
Both actors expressed pride in the final film and its mission to support survivors of domestic violence, while acknowledging that the production process “presented challenges” and that concerns raised by Lively deserved a fair hearing.
The resolution brings an end to a contentious dispute that only erupted in December 2024.
Lively, 38, had accused her co-star and director of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment, claiming she faced retaliation and a smear campaign after speaking out.
Baldoni, 42, consistently denied the allegations and even launched a counter-suit that was dismissed by a judge last year.
The settlement follows a recommendation from U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman, who had urged both parties to find a way to settle out of court.
While the case was headed for the courtroom, it had not been a smooth ride for either side.
In April, Judge Liman dismissed a significant portion of Lively’s claims, including those relating to harassment, defamation and conspiracy.
However, he allowed three specific charges to go forward: breach of contract, retaliation and aiding and abetting retaliation.
Baldoni’s legal team had expressed satisfaction that the most serious claims of harassment were thrown out, while Lively’s lawyers maintained the focus was always on revealing the “devastating retaliation” she faced for standing up for safety on set.
Ultimately, both stars seem eager to leave the legal drama.
Their statement emphasized a shared commitment to workplaces free of “unproductive environments” and expressed a sincere hope that the settlement brings closure for all involved.
By settling down now, they have managed to move forward in peace, specifically calling for a more “respectful environment online” as they shift focus back to their professional lives and the meaningful impact of their work.
