Blake Lively Claps Back at Justin Baldoni’s Counter-Lawsuit Allegations

December 28, 2024
By M Muzamil Shami

Blake Lively has dismissed recent claims of a smear campaign as Justin Baldoni threatens a counter-lawsuit in response to her accusations.

According to reports, Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, is preparing a counter-suit, alleging that Lively's sexual harassment claims misrepresented subpoenaed text messages. The lawsuit suggests these were taken out of context to tarnish Baldoni’s reputation and rebuild Lively’s public image.

Lively’s publicist, Leslie Sloan, responded to the accusations, categorically denying any role in leaking negative stories. "The allegations that I planted press stories about Justin Baldoni are entirely false," Sloan said in a statement to People magazine.

Reports from Daily Mail indicate that Baldoni’s legal team accuses Sloan of orchestrating leaks, including HR complaints from the set of It Ends with Us, a film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's bestseller. The countersuit, expected to be filed in 2025 when courts reopen, contends that these actions were part of a larger campaign against Baldoni.

Sloan clarified that her role was limited to redirecting media inquiries. "On August 11, I was forwarded an anonymous tip about HR complaints on the set. I referred reporters to Wayfarer or Sony for official statements," she explained.

Furthermore, Sloan referenced complaints filed by Jonesworks LLC and Stephanie Jones, asserting they substantiate her claims of an orchestrated effort targeting Lively rather than Baldoni.

Despite the ongoing legal drama, Lively and her team remain resolute, dismissing Baldoni’s claims as baseless and focused on clearing her name.