Blake Lively, actress and star of "It Ends With Us," has filed a complaint against her co-star Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and a coordinated smear campaign. The complaint, filed with the California Civil Rights Department, is a prelude to a potential lawsuit. The allegations center around a hostile work environment, unwanted interactions, and Baldoni's alleged efforts to damage Lively's reputation.
The complaint details Lively's claims of a hostile work environment, alleging Baldoni and producer Jamey Heath engaged in repeated sexual harassment. This included unwelcome physical contact and the insertion of inappropriate content into the film. Lively reportedly demanded that these actions cease and further stated several conditions for her continued participation in the production.
Lively's complaint further alleges a coordinated effort by Baldoni, along with PR representatives, to damage her reputation. Evidence, including text messages and emails obtained by the media outlets, allegedly reveals a strategic plan to manipulate public perception.
This alleged smear campaign, according to the complaint, caused Lively "severe emotional distress." The complaint outlines specific actions including manipulating media narratives, disseminating negative information, and a concerted attempt to "destroy" her reputation.
Baldoni, however, strongly denies the allegations. His legal team disputes the claims as "false," calling them a "desperate attempt to fix" Lively's image.
The controversy surrounding the film's production has generated significant media attention, with "The New York Times" also conducting an investigation into the matter. Baldoni has also filed a countersuit against the "New York Times," alleging that their coverage was biased and inaccurate. He accuses the publication of relying on Lively's narrative while ignoring contrary evidence.
The situation has involved other cast members and the author, Colleen Hoover, who reportedly also refused to collaborate with Baldoni in promotional activities, signaling a broader conflict. This highlights a fractured on-set dynamic during the film's promotional phase. The legal proceedings and counter-accusations demonstrate the multifaceted nature of the dispute.
In response to the allegations, Baldoni's legal team maintains that the claims are unfounded and that Lively is attempting to manipulate the narrative. The "New York Times" defends its reporting, citing the use of credible sources, including thousands of documents, as the basis for its investigation.
