Introduction
Blake Lively has recently shared her feelings regarding the emotional distress she experienced due to Justin Baldoni’s countersuit, which she describes as a source of significant “pain.”
However, she expressed a sense of relief following the judge’s decision to dismiss the countersuit, which she believes has effectively nullified the claims made against her.
This development marks a pivotal moment for Lively, as she navigates the complexities of the legal situation while also addressing the personal impact it has had on her life.
The dismissal not only alleviates her immediate concerns but also allows her to move forward with a renewed sense of clarity and purpose.
The actress, aged 37, shared her experience on Instagram Stories on June 9, expressing the profound impact of facing a retaliatory lawsuit, a struggle that resonates with many.
She articulated the emotional toll of such legal battles, highlighting the manufactured shame that often accompanies them, aiming to undermine one’s spirit.
Although she emerged victorious in her own case, she poignantly noted that countless individuals lack the necessary resources to mount a defense against similar challenges, underscoring a significant disparity in access to justice.
Lively expressed her unwavering commitment to championing every woman’s right to assert her voice in matters of self-protection, emphasizing the importance of safety, integrity, dignity, and personal narratives.
She conveyed her deep appreciation for the support she has received from numerous individuals, acknowledging that while she may know some personally, there are many others whose identities remain unknown to her. Regardless of this, her gratitude is profound, and she remains dedicated to advocating for their rights and well-being.
In her recent post, Lively provided a comprehensive compilation of organizations that offer valuable resources and information pertinent to various legal and social issues.
This list includes the California Employment Lawyers Association, which advocates for workers’ rights, and the California Women’s Law Center, dedicated to advancing the rights of women through legal initiatives. Additionally, CHILD USA focuses on preventing child abuse and neglect, while the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women works tirelessly to combat human trafficking.
Other notable organizations include Equal Rights Advocates, which champions gender equality, and Esperanza United, which supports Latinx survivors of domestic violence.
Her Justice provides legal assistance to women in need, and Herunivercity Inc. empowers women through education and mentorship. The National Network to End Domestic Violence plays a crucial role in addressing domestic violence on a national scale, while the National Organization for Women and its New York City chapter advocate for women’s rights and equality.
The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault and the New York Cyber Abuse Task Force address specific issues related to sexual violence and online abuse, respectively.
Furthermore, the New York State Anti-Trafficking Coalition works collaboratively to combat trafficking in the state, and Sanctuary for Families offers support to survivors of domestic violence and trafficking.
The Urban Resource Institute provides shelter and services for families in crisis, while Women’s Equal Justice and Women’s Justice NOW focus on ensuring justice and equality for women in the legal system.
Recent amicus briefs filed by various organizations and experts have raised concerns about Baldoni’s alleged efforts to undermine a law intended to safeguard women who come forward, according to a spokesperson for Lively.
On June 9, Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed the $400 million lawsuit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, which included claims of extortion and defamation, as well as Baldoni’s $250 million defamation suit against The New York Times.
Her legal team celebrated the ruling as a complete triumph and a full exoneration for the actress. In their statement following the dismissal, Lively’s attorneys, Esra Hudson and Mike Gottlieb, emphasized that the $400 million lawsuit was baseless from the outset, and the Court recognized its lack of merit.
They expressed anticipation for the upcoming phase, which aims to recover attorneys’ fees, seek treble damages, and pursue punitive damages against Baldoni and the Wayfarer Parties for what they describe as abusive litigation.
In a filing dated June 9, Judge Liman indicated that Baldoni’s legal team retains the option to amend their claims regarding breach of implied covenant and tortious interference with contract, with a deadline set for June 23.
In December 2024, Lively filed a lawsuit against her It Ends With Us director and co-star Baldoni, 41, along with several others, claiming sexual harassment and retaliation, allegations that Baldoni has refuted.
Recently, she decided to withdraw two specific claims against Baldoni—intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress—an action her legal team characterized as a standard procedure in the litigation process aimed at streamlining and concentrating their case.
