Blake Lively addressed the public on Friday following a judicial decision that significantly narrowed her legal case against actor Justin Baldoni, her costar from the film "It Ends With Us." Judge Lewis Liman dismissed ten of the thirteen claims the actress had filed, though the remaining claims will advance to trial.
In a lengthy statement shared via Instagram, Lively, 38, expressed gratitude that the core elements of her case would still be heard by a jury. She emphasized that her decision to pursue legal action stemmed from what she characterized as pervasive retaliation following her requests for a safe working environment.
"I am grateful for the Court's ruling which allows the heart of my case to be presented to a jury next month, and for the ability to finally tell my story in full at trial," Lively stated. She added that her motivation extended beyond personal vindication to representing others who lack similar opportunities to seek accountability.
The actress underscored that litigation was not her preferred course of action. "The last thing I wanted in my life was a lawsuit, but I brought this case because of the pervasive RETALIATION I faced, and continued to, for privately and professionally asking for a safe working environment for myself and others," she wrote.
Lively addressed broader concerns about what she termed "digital violence," arguing that such conduct constitutes a form of abuse with tangible consequences. She rejected characterizations of the matter as mere celebrity drama, asserting that individuals outside the public eye face similar challenges in various professional and personal contexts.
"The physical pain from digital violence is very real. It is abuse. And it's everywhere. Not just in the news, but in your communities and schools," Lively wrote, noting that such conduct disproportionately affects women and children.
The actress expressed commitment to continuing advocacy work beyond the courtroom, crediting those who have previously fought for workplace safety and systemic reform. She acknowledged that many individuals work toward social change without public recognition, risking personal and professional consequences.
"I will never stop doing my part in the fight to expose the systems and people who seek to harm, shame, silence and retaliate against victims," Lively stated. She concluded by acknowledging the privilege inherent in her ability to pursue legal action and pledged not to waste the platform her circumstances have afforded her.
The legal dispute between Lively and Baldoni emerged from their work together on the romantic drama "It Ends With Us." While the judge's ruling on Thursday eliminated most of the claims, the remaining allegations will proceed to trial, where both parties will have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony before a jury.
The case continues to develop as both legal teams prepare for the upcoming trial proceedings.