Baldoni Drops Countersuit; Lively Trial Set for 2026

Justin Baldoni has opted not to refile his $400 million defamation countersuit against Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and others after a judge dismissed the case, instead choosing to explore other legal options. Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, maintains that the dismissal does not impact their defense against Lively’s ongoing lawsuit, which accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, and orchestrating a smear campaign. Lively’s representatives have called the dismissal a total victory and criticized Baldoni for not following through on his promise to amend and refile the countersuit. The dispute stems from their work together on the film 'It Ends With Us.' Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni is scheduled to go to trial in March 2026, with both parties continuing to assert their innocence. The case continues to attract significant media and public attention.