Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni Reach Confidential Settlement Ending It Ends With Us Lawsuit

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have reached a confidential out-of-court settlement to end their legal dispute stemming from the making and promotion of It Ends With Us, bringing an abrupt end to a case that had been headed toward trial in New York. The agreement, reached in recent days in May 2026 just before a May 18 court date, resolves claims filed by Lively against Baldoni, who directed and co-starred in the film, and ends months of intensified public scrutiny around the project.

Lively’s lawsuit, filed in December 2024, accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and of helping create a hostile work environment, along with allegations that his side ran a smear campaign to damage her reputation. Baldoni denied the allegations and countersued, accusing Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, of defamation and interference with professional relationships.

A federal judge substantially narrowed the case earlier this year, dismissing most of Lively’s claims, including allegations related to sexual harassment and defamation. Lively then moved toward settlement as the remaining issues became smaller but continued to carry reputational and legal risk for both parties. Legal experts...