Blake Lively Sues Justin Baldoni for Harassment and Defamation

Blake Lively has filed a lawsuit against actor and filmmaker Justin Baldoni, accusing him of sexual harassment and working to ruin her reputation. The legal case also names two public relations professionals, Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel, for their alleged roles in tarnishing Lively's image.

Court documents reveal text messages between Nathan and Abel that were obtained through a subpoena. The messages, published by The New York Times, suggest that the two PR experts celebrated their efforts to sway public opinion against Lively.

One message from Abel reportedly stated that the online narrative was "so freaking good," with Baldoni allegedly viewing it as "a total success." Nathan is said to have responded, "The majority of socials are so pro Justin, and I don’t even agree with half of them lol."

Lively's attorneys claim the texts also show Nathan planning to plant negative stories about Lively being difficult to work with. Nathan allegedly mentioned working with a major news editor ready to publish such stories.

The texts reference Jed Wallace, who is described as playing a key role in shaping social media conversations to favor Baldoni. Nathan also commented on the public's bias, allegedly saying it was "sad because it just shows how much people want to hate on women."

In one exchange, Abel praised Nathan for her work, and Nathan reportedly replied, "That’s why you hired me, right? I'm the best."

The lawsuit also accuses Baldoni of inappropriate behavior, including watching Lively while she changed clothes, making explicit comments, and showing her a private video of his wife.

Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, called the claims "false, outrageous, and intentionally salacious," stating the lawsuit aims to harm Baldoni publicly.

This case has drawn significant attention, with fans and the media closely watching how it unfolds.