Blake Lively Pulls Back in Justin Baldoni Legal Showdown

Blake Lively seems to be taking a step back—but not all the way back—in her explosive legal battle with It Ends With Us costar and director Justin Baldoni. The Hollywood starlet recently requested to withdraw her claims of intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress, just as things were starting to heat up. But don't call it a surrender—this might just be a tactical timeout. 

Why Now? Legal Pressure Meets Private Details 

The timing of Blake’s request raised some perfectly plucked eyebrows. Baldoni’s legal team had just asked for some pretty personal receipts: therapy notes, names of mental health providers, and other sensitive records to back up Lively’s emotional distress claims. Instead of handing over the diary, Blake chose to bow out—but only "without prejudice," meaning she can come back swinging later if she wants. 

A Strategic Retreat, Not a White Flag 

So is Blake backing down? Well… not exactly. According to court filings, she’s not closing the door on these claims entirely. She's simply stashing them away for now, leaving open the possibility to refile later. It’s what some are calling a “have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too” move—which, in Hollywood legalese, means keeping options open while avoiding courtroom oversharing. 

Baldoni’s Camp Isn’t Buying the Exit Strategy 

Justin Baldoni’s team is not impressed. In fact, they’re calling out what they see as a classic Hollywood sidestep. In court documents, they argue Blake is refusing to provide proof while reserving the right to resurface the claims when it suits her. In their words: “She can’t have it both ways.” But if you’ve followed Lively’s career, you know—she usually does get both ways. 

The Bigger Battle Is Far From Over 

Let’s not forget—this legal drama is more than emotional distress claims. Lively’s still full steam ahead on her larger lawsuit, which includes sexual harassment, retaliation, and big-ticket compensatory damages. Her lawyers say they’re simply “streamlining” the case and not falling for Baldoni’s alleged PR games. According to them, the real show is still in pre-production. 

Taylor Swift Subpoenaed?! Yes, That Happened 

In a headline twist worthy of its own Netflix special, pop icon and Lively BFF Taylor Swift has been subpoenaed in connection with the case. Details are hush-hush, but it’s safe to say that this trial is gaining steam—and star power. With Taylor’s name in the mix, you can bet the press seats at trial will be standing-room only. 

Set Your Calendar: The Trial Is Coming (Eventually) 

Circle March 2026 in red lipstick because that’s when Lively and Baldoni are due in court. Yep, it’s going to be a long build-up—plenty of time for twists, subpoenas, and, likely, more public statements disguised as "routine legal updates." 

Hollywood's Legal Soap Opera Continues 

While Blake may have shelved her emotional distress claims (for now), her legal showdown with Justin Baldoni is still very much alive—and as dramatic as ever. With both camps refusing to stay silent and trial day a distant but looming reality, this saga is far from its final act. Pass the popcorn.