Blake Lively’s sexual harassment claims against Justin Baldoni have been dismissed.

In a recent development regarding the ongoing legal case surrounding the film “It Ends With Us,” federal judge Lewis J. Liman has ruled on the sexual harassment claims filed by Blake Lively against her co-star and director Justin Baldoni. The ruling, issued in Manhattan, dismissed Lively’s harassment claims but allowed three other claims, including retaliation, to proceed, enabling a jury to consider many associated allegations.

Lively, who served both as the film’s star and producer, initiated legal action in December 2024, seeking accountability for her allegations against Baldoni. The judge’s decision comes ahead of a trial set to commence on May 18.

In a counterclaim, Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, accused Lively and her spouse, actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and extortion. Notably, the judge had dismissed Baldoni’s counterclaims in June 2024.

Judge Liman’s ruling focused on Lively’s status in relation to Baldoni, determining that Lively was acting as an independent contractor rather than as an employee. This classification precluded her from asserting claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits various forms of employment discrimination, including those based on sex.

The court did find that evidence may exist that could lead a jury to conclude that Baldoni’s production company sought to damage Lively’s reputation and impede her career, stemming from fears that she might file a discrimination claim. Lively’s allegations of a smear campaign were described by the judge as detrimental to her reputation and career.

In analyzing the sexual harassment claims, the judge noted that while certain actions by Baldoni could be construed as inappropriate—such as gestures he made while directing intimate scenes—these actions must be contextualized within the framework of the film’s narrative. The judge concluded that Baldoni’s conduct was part of his role as director and not excessively beyond what could reasonably occur between characters during a scripted scene.

Despite these findings, Judge Liman allowed for the possibility that certain elements of the harassment claims could support the unresolved retaliation claims, including one against “It Ends With Us Movie LLC” and Wayfarer Studios, along with a contractual dispute claim against the production company.

Lively’s attorney expressed optimism, stating that Lively is eager to testify and to highlight the broader implications of online retaliation in the industry. The legal battle is poised to shed light on complex issues surrounding workplace conduct and creative expression in entertainment.

“It Ends With Us,” based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, was released in August 2024 and achieved impressive box office success, grossing million in its debut. However, the film’s release was overshadowed by ongoing speculation regarding tensions between Lively and Baldoni.

Blake Lively, recognized for her roles in popular films and television series, including “Gossip Girl,” and Justin Baldoni, known for his role in “Jane the Virgin,” continue to generate interest in both their artistic contributions and this high-profile legal dispute.

As the trial approaches, public attention will likely remain focused on the unfolding legal proceedings and the ramifications they may have for workplace standards within the entertainment industry.