Attorneys representing actors Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively engaged in their inaugural day of legal proceedings at court, disputing the sexual harassment and other allegations stemming from their movie, "It Ends With Us."
In December, Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni accusing him of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign against her. Baldoni refuted these accusations and counter-sued Lively for defamation among other claims.
Although not mandated to appear in person, the co-stars' legal representatives attended a preliminary session at Manhattan's federal court on Monday.
The session grew tense as both sides' lawyers accused each other of slander beyond the courtroom.
Lively's counsel, Michael Gottlieb, emphasized to Judge Lewis Liman that the matter should be settled in court rather than in the media. Conversely, Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, countered by expressing concern about a potential media "gag order," asserting that Baldoni had endured both financial and emotional distress.
Citing the legal drama surrounding the film "It Ends With Us," based on a novel by Colleen Hoover, Judge Liman remarked that both parties had fed public speculation.
To avoid prejudicing potential jurors, the judge warned that if the case continued to be litigated through publicity, the March 2026 trial could be expedited.
Additionally, Judge Liman stipulated adherence to Rule 3.6 of the New York Bar Association, prohibiting lawyers from making public statements that could influence trial outcomes.
Baldoni's recently updated complaint against Lively, including a detailed timeline, was presented alongside a website housing related material. Lively's legal team raised questions about the website's creation and funding.
Contention arose over released outtakes from a romantic scene in the film, with Baldoni arguing they disprove Lively's harassment claims, which she countered as damning evidence supportive of her allegations.
Lively's attorneys vowed to file an amended complaint including more individuals in the case.
The legal battle involves third-party entities such as the New York Times and public relations companies, which will be addressed separately from Baldoni and Lively's lawsuit, per Judge Liman.
To safeguard involved high-profile individuals amid the serious allegations, Judge Liman deemed a protective order necessary and agreed to progressing the case swiftly, accommodating minor schedule adjustments as requested by Baldoni's legal team.
Judge Liman emphasized that ultimately, a jury would render a verdict in due course.