The ongoing legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, director of “It Ends with Us,” has further unveiled the actress’s reliance on her close friend Taylor Swift amid troubling allegations of harassment on set. Recently unsealed court documents reveal that Lively openly discussed her discomfort while filming the 2024 movie with friends, including the pop superstar.
In the contentious suit filed against Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and attempting to damage her reputation. The legal documents highlight one exchange between Lively and Swift, where Lively referred to Baldoni as her “doofus director.” In another text ahead of a revealing New York Times article, Swift quipped about Baldoni’s behavior, indicating that he seemed aware of the brewing issues.
“It’s like a horror film no one knows is taking place,” Swift reportedly said, demonstrating the seriousness with which both women viewed the situation. These messages underscore the support Lively received from Swift during a tumultuous time.
Sigrid McCawley, part of Lively’s legal team, stated that Lively’s concerns were documented early in 2023 and that Wayfarer ignored reports of harassment while retaliating against those who spoke up. Meanwhile, Baldoni’s legal representation has dismissed these claims, asserting that the evidence tells a different story.
The initial coverage by the New York Times triggered a series of lawsuits, including Baldoni’s against the publication for alleged inaccuracies, as well as a $400 million defamation suit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds. So far, these lawsuits have faced setbacks, with a judge dismissing Baldoni’s claims against both Lively and Reynolds.
Interestingly, Swift’s involvement has attracted media attention since she was subpoenaed in 2025, highlighting her tight-knit friendship with Lively. The documents also reference Swift’s contribution to the film’s promotion, including directing a music video for her song that featured in the movie’s trailer.
Additional complaints about Baldoni surfaced from Lively’s co-star, Jenny Slate, who described the shoot as “really gross and disturbing,” indicating a broader sense of discontent among the cast regarding their filming experience.
As this legal saga unfolds, it highlights not only the challenges faced by actresses in Hollywood but also the importance of solidarity among friends and colleagues in addressing serious issues of workplace misconduct. The continued support from Swift, alongside revelations from other cast members, sends a strong message about the necessity for accountability and openness in the film industry.
Leave a comment