Surprise Encounter: Justin Baldoni Joins Blake Lively’s Deposition Amid Intense ‘It Ends With Us’ Legal Battle

Blake Lively recently faced a deposition in New York City as part of her legal fight surrounding the film “It Ends With Us.” This session took a twist when actor Justin Baldoni, her former co-star, unexpectedly showed up.

Lively wanted the deposition to take place at her lawyers’ office to avoid paparazzi. Her team argued that being in a familiar space would help her feel secure. Baldoni’s lawyers, however, claimed this setup might unfairly hinder their ability to consult privately during the session, sparking a back-and-forth in court.

The focus of the case is serious. Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and attempting to damage her reputation. Her lawyer, Mike Gottlieb, expressed confidence in Lively’s willingness to testify, emphasizing that the best platform for her story is at trial.

Tensions rose when Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, suggested that they broadcast the deposition live at Madison Square Garden, turning it into a public event. He proposed selling tickets and donating the proceeds to support domestic abuse victims. This suggestion was met with skepticism from Lively’s camp, who feared it could detract from the seriousness of the allegations.

Fortunately for Lively, the judge ultimately sided with her request about the location. The decision included provisions for Baldoni’s team to access necessary materials during the deposition.

Baldoni’s legal team aims to show that Lively’s claims are unfounded. They have set up a website presenting personal messages and footage from the film set to bolster their defense. Yet, Lively argues that these leaks only support her allegations, asserting that more women felt uncomfortable around Baldoni.

Lively’s accusations extend beyond harassment to include claims of a smear campaign against her. In retaliation, Baldoni filed a $400 million defamation lawsuit against her and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, though this was dismissed in June. The judge deemed her statements protected under legal privilege, clarifying that she couldn’t be sued for them.

This high-profile case is scheduled for trial in March 2026, drawing attention not just for the celebrity status of those involved but also for the serious issues of harassment and defamation at its core. As discussions around workplace harassment continue to gain momentum, this case exemplifies the risks and repercussions facing those who speak out.

For further insights into workplace harassment, you might find the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) a valuable resource.

In today’s world, these legal battles not only shape the careers of those involved but also influence public perception and awareness around sensitive issues.

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