“Actress Blake Lively Takes On ‘With Us’ Director Justin Baldoni in a Shocking Lawsuit”

**Blake Lively Files Lawsuit Against Co-Star and Director Justin Baldoni for Sexual Harassment**

Actress Blake Lively has officially filed a lawsuit against her co-star and director, Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment, retaliation, and breach of contract. The lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of New York on Tuesday, December 31, and also names the publicist Melissa Nathan and Wayfarer Studios as defendants.

**Background on the Allegations**

According to the lawsuit, Lively claims that she faced months of sexual harassment from Baldoni while working on the film “It All Ends with Us.” She alleges that she reported the harassment to her publicist and others, but was met with retaliation and aggression. The lawsuit claims that Lively suffered severe emotional distress as a result of Baldoni’s behavior.

**The Lawsuit’s Claims**

The lawsuit alleges that Baldoni’s alleged behavior includes:

* Sexual harassment: Lively claims that Baldoni made unwanted advances and comments towards her on set, creating a hostile work environment.
* Retaliation: Lively alleges that she was retaliated against after reporting the harassment, including being subjected to a smear campaign by Baldoni and his team.
* Breach of contract: Lively claims that Baldoni breached their contract by not providing a safe and respectful work environment.
* Infliction of emotional distress: Lively alleges that she suffered severe emotional distress as a result of Baldoni’s behavior.
* Invasion of privacy: Lively claims that Baldoni invaded her privacy by sharing private conversations and messages with others.

**Baldoni’s Response**

Baldoni’s attorney, Brian Friedman, has responded to the lawsuit, stating that Lively’s allegations are part of a “malicious smear campaign.” Friedman claims that Lively’s accusations are false and were made to damage Baldoni’s reputation and repair her own.

**Counter-Lawsuit by Baldoni and Others**

In response to Lively’s lawsuit, Baldoni has filed a counter-lawsuit against her and others, including her publicist and Wayfarer Studios. The lawsuit claims that Lively and her team engaged in a smear campaign against Baldoni, including sharing doctored and manipulated texts with the New York Times.

**Background on the Counter-Lawsuit**

The counter-lawsuit alleges that Lively and her team used the New York Times to spread false and manipulated information about Baldoni, in order to harm his reputation and destroy his career. The lawsuit claims that the New York Times was willing to do this because it was biased and one-sided, and because it was a way to get readers and clicks.

**Conclusion**

This high-profile case is a reminder of the need for safe and respectful workplaces, where employees and creators can feel safe and valued. If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment or retaliation, it’s essential to report it and seek support.

**FAQs:**

**Q: What is the alleged sexual harassment that Lively claims occurred?**

A: Lively alleges that Baldoni made unwanted advances and comments towards her on set, creating a hostile work environment.

**Q: Has Baldoni denied the allegations?**

A: Yes, Baldoni’s attorney has stated that Lively’s allegations are part of a “malicious smear campaign” and have denied all the allegations.

**Q: What is the counter-lawsuit filed by Baldoni and others?**

A: The counter-lawsuit claims that Lively and her team engaged in a smear campaign against Baldoni, including sharing doctored and manipulated texts with the New York Times.

**Q: What is the potential impact of this case?**

A: This case could have a significant impact on the film industry and workplace culture, highlighting the importance of creating safe and respectful workplaces for all employees and creators.

**Conclusion:**

This case is a reminder of the need for safe and respectful workplaces, where employees and creators can feel safe and valued. If you or someone you know is experiencing harassment or retaliation, it’s essential to report it and seek support.