Blake Lively is not one to back down easily. Recently, she faced a storm after filing a lawsuit against her It Ends With Us director, Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and a subsequent smear campaign aimed at damaging her reputation.
According to sources, Lively, 37, is navigating this challenging period with resilience. Surrounded by her loving family, including her husband Ryan Reynolds and their four children, she remains steadfast. “She enjoyed the holidays and very much tries to live in the moment right now,” shared an insider. Meanwhile, she stays actively in touch with her team, gearing up for what promises to be a tumultuous start to the year.
The lawsuit, filed with the California Civil Rights Department on December 20, claims that Baldoni, who helms the production company Wayfarer Studios, sexually harassed Lively. Allegedly, after she spoke out, Baldoni launched a public campaign to discredit her. In response, Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, labeled the accusations as “false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt.”
Lively’s legal complaint suggests an impending fierce legal showdown, spotlighting the persisting issues of sexism in Hollywood, even years post the #MeToo movement. In her statement, Lively expressed hope that her legal actions would reveal the harsh tactics used to silence those who bravely speak up.
As the year comes to a close, Lively’s legal team is reviewing her avenues while awaiting a decision from the California Civil Rights Department. With the department having 60 days to inform her whether they will investigate, Lively’s next steps hinge on this outcome. According to legal expert Gregory Doll, if the investigation proceeds, mediation could be sought; otherwise, Lively might receive a right to sue letter, paving the way for a court battle.
Should the case proceed to trial, it could become intensely personal, given the bitter dispute between Lively and Baldoni. Legal analyst Doll anticipates that counterclaims from Baldoni are almost certain, given the contentious exchanges already seen between their legal representatives.
Blake Lively’s journey through this legal battle underscores her determination to stand up for herself against significant odds. With her family’s support and legal guidance, Lively is poised to confront whatever challenges arise from this high-stakes conflict.
Source: Yahoo
