Blake Lively, star of “It Ends With Us,” has escalated her legal battle against director and co-star Justin Baldoni, accusing him of orchestrating an online defamation campaign. On July 2, 2025, the 37-year-old actress subpoenaed three content creators—Perez Hilton, Candace Owens, and Andy Signore—to gather evidence of alleged negative posts coordinated by Baldoni and his team. The lawsuit, ongoing in New York courts, stems from Lively’s claims of sexual harassment and retaliation on the film’s set, which Baldoni denies, countering with a $400 million defamation and extortion lawsuit that was dismissed in June. The case, involving names like Taylor Swift and Scooter Braun, is set for trial in March 2026. Lively aims to protect her reputation, while Baldoni vows a robust defense.
The controversy gained traction after leaks to TMZ, with the subpoenaed creators denying direct involvement. The court also denied confidentiality for messages between Lively and Swift, heightening tensions.
- Individuals subpoenaed by Lively:
- Perez Hilton, celebrity gossip blogger.
- Candace Owens, political commentator.
- Andy Signore, YouTube creator focused on celebrity scandals.
- Scooter Braun, music manager, also notified.
The dispute underscores the growing role of social media in Hollywood legal battles, with implications for both parties’ reputations.
Origin of the legal dispute
The conflict between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni began in December 2024, when Lively filed a formal complaint with Hollywood’s regulatory body, accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliatory behavior during the filming of “It Ends With Us.” She alleges Baldoni created a hostile work environment with inappropriate comments and attempts to tarnish her image after creative disagreements. Baldoni denied the claims, asserting that Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, sought to seize creative control of the film, causing friction.
In response, Baldoni filed a $400 million countersuit, accusing the couple of defamation and extortion. Judge Lewis J. Liman dismissed the suit in June 2025 for lack of merit, granting Baldoni until June 23 to refile, a deadline he missed. Lively expanded her case, seeking evidence of an alleged social media smear campaign.
Colleen Hoover, author of the book behind the film, publicly supported Lively, praising her “integrity.” Actresses like America Ferrera and Amber Tamblyn also backed Lively, emphasizing the need for safe work environments.
Subpoenas to content creators
Lively subpoenaed Perez Hilton, Candace Owens, and Andy Signore to investigate posts that allegedly harmed her reputation. Hilton, known for celebrity gossip, pledged to cooperate with the court, though he claims he hasn’t received the subpoena. Owens, on her podcast, denied any connection to Baldoni and criticized the leak to TMZ as manipulative.
Signore, who runs a YouTube channel on celebrity controversies, confirmed his lawyer received a statement from Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, denying coordination with influencers. Signore’s team plans to protect source confidentiality, citing press freedom. Scooter Braun, also subpoenaed, has not commented publicly as of July 2025.
- Responses from subpoenaed parties:
- Perez Hilton: Committed to complying with legal obligations.
- Candace Owens: Denied involvement and questioned the subpoena’s basis.
- Andy Signore: Will defend source confidentiality.
- Scooter Braun: No public response yet.
Taylor Swift’s involvement
Baldoni sought access to private messages between Lively and Taylor Swift, claiming relevance to the case. On June 18, 2025, Judge Liman ordered the release of messages related to the film’s work environment, denying Lively’s request for confidentiality. The ruling sparked backlash from fans, who accused Baldoni of invading the actress’s privacy and targeting her friendship with Swift.
The messages, due by August 2025, may shed light on set tensions, though their legal weight is debated. Swift has not commented, but her long-standing friendship with Lively, dating back to 2010, has drawn media attention, with the New York Post labeling the decision a “setback” for Lively.
Alleged defamation campaign
Lively claims Baldoni hired a PR agency to spread negative narratives, aiming to discredit her harassment allegations. The campaign allegedly involved social media posts and articles questioning her professionalism. The subpoenas to influencers seek communications proving coordination by Baldoni’s team.
Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, denies the accusations, stating that Baldoni has “substantial evidence,” including emails and set recordings, to be presented at trial in March 2026. Freedman alleges Lively manipulated the narrative for victimhood, leveraging her influence with figures like Swift and Reynolds. The public feud has polarized fans, with some rallying behind Lively via hashtags like #StandWithBlake, while others question her claims.
Social media’s role
The subpoenas to Hilton, Owens, and Signore highlight social media’s influence in legal disputes. Hilton covered set tensions on his blog, while Owens criticized Hollywood’s complaint culture in her podcast. Signore’s videos labeled Lively a “professional victim,” prompting his inclusion in the lawsuit.
Lively’s strategy aims to uncover links between these creators and Baldoni’s PR team. Social media posts amplified the dispute, with TMZ’s exclusive reports fueling speculation. The case illustrates how digital platforms shape public perception in celebrity conflicts.
Hollywood’s support for Lively
Lively has garnered support from key Hollywood figures. Colleen Hoover praised her commitment, while Wayfarer Studios’ Jamey Heath lauded her courage. Actresses Jenny Slate and Amber Tamblyn emphasized the need to address workplace harassment, echoing the #MeToo movement’s influence. Lively stated her lawsuit aims to “protect future generations of actresses” from inappropriate behavior.
Baldoni faces scrutiny for his aggressive countersuit, seen as an attempt to intimidate Lively. The dismissal of his $400 million claim weakened his position, but his team remains confident in upcoming evidence.
Film’s success and controversy
“It Ends With Us,” based on Hoover’s novel, grossed $352 million globally on a $25 million budget. The film, tackling domestic violence, was praised for its message but marred by the Lively-Baldoni feud. Sony Pictures, the distributor, has stayed neutral but is considering replacing Baldoni for the sequel, “It Starts With Us.”
Lively, also a producer, may gain more creative control if the lawsuit favors her. Baldoni, who holds adaptation rights, faces uncertainty as director. The film’s success, with 12 million U.S. viewers, contrasts with its troubled production.
- Film’s financials:
- Global box office: $352 million.
- Budget: $25 million.
- Sony’s estimated profit: $150 million.
- U.S. audience: 12 million viewers.
Next steps in the trial
The trial, set for March 2026, will determine the outcome. Lively plans to present cast and crew testimonies, while Baldoni relies on emails and recordings. The release of Lively-Swift messages in August 2025 could add new evidence, though its relevance is contested. Judge Liman stressed that the case will hinge on “concrete evidence,” dismissing media speculation.
Public and media debate
The case has divided public opinion. Lively’s supporters champion her fight against harassment, while Baldoni’s backers question her allegations’ credibility. Owens’ involvement sparked criticism for politicizing the dispute, while Hoover’s endorsement bolstered Lively. Intense coverage by Variety and TMZ keeps the case in the spotlight, raising questions about privacy and media influence.