ABC News - New lawsuit drops in ‘It Ends with Us’ legal battle
Blake Lively has accused her 'It Ends With Us' co-star and director Justin Baldoni of attempting to ruin her reputation. This accusation is supported by a lawsuit filed by Baldoni's former publicist, Stephanie Jones, who claims there was a deliberate plot to destroy both her and Lively's reputations. Jones alleges she discovered the scheme through text messages on a former employee's work phone. The lawsuit accuses Baldoni and his crisis PR team of breach of contract and defamation, aiming to protect Baldoni by blaming Jones for the smear campaign. Baldoni has not commented on the lawsuit, and his attorney has denied Lively's allegations. Following these events, Baldoni has faced professional setbacks, including being dropped by his talent agency and losing a podcast co-host. Several cast members, including Jenny Slate and Brandon Scolar, have publicly supported Lively. Lively's complaint is now with the California Civil Rights Department, which could take months to reach court.
Key Points:
- Blake Lively accuses Justin Baldoni of a smear campaign and sexual harassment.
- Baldoni's former publicist, Stephanie Jones, supports Lively's claims with a lawsuit alleging defamation and breach of contract.
- Jones discovered the alleged plot through text messages on a former employee's phone.
- Baldoni has faced professional consequences, including losing his talent agency and podcast co-host.
- Several cast members have publicly supported Lively, and her complaint is with the California Civil Rights Department.
Details:
1. 🎬 Hollywood Legal Drama Unfolds
1.1. Blake Lively's Accusation
1.2. Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni
2. 📱 Lawsuit Details and Allegations
- A new lawsuit has been filed against Justin Baldoni, director and lead actor of 'It Ends With Us,' by his former publicist Stephanie Jones.
- Jones accuses Baldoni and his crisis PR team of breach of contract and defamation.
- The lawsuit alleges that the crisis team, including Jones's former employee, schemed to destroy co-star Blake Lively's reputation to protect Baldoni.
- Jones claims that she discovered the alleged scheme through text messages and communications found on a former employee's work phone.
- The lawsuit could potentially impact Baldoni's reputation and career, as well as the production and reception of 'It Ends With Us.'
- Background: Stephanie Jones was previously a key figure in Baldoni's PR efforts, and their professional relationship adds complexity to the allegations.
- Jones seeks damages and a formal apology, potentially affecting future collaborations and industry dynamics.
3. 📣 Responses to Allegations
3.1. Legal Responses
3.2. Professional Repercussions
4. 🎭 Support for Blake Lively
4.1. Public Support from Co-Stars
4.2. Legal Proceedings
5. 🔍 Ongoing Investigation
- The investigation is expected to be long-term, indicating complexity and potentially significant impacts.
- The development over time suggests evolving circumstances or new revelations that could alter the investigation's trajectory.
- The investigation's ongoing nature implies continual updates, with potential for regular insights and revelations.