Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively appeared separately in a Manhattan federal courtroom on February 11 for a court-ordered settlement conference tied to their ongoing legal dispute surrounding It Ends With Us. After six hours of closed-door mediation, no agreement was reached.
Lively arrived alone, notably without husband Ryan Reynolds. Baldoni attended with his wife, Emily. Observers noted that both actors wore olive green jackets accented with light pink.
The settlement conference was led by Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave and aimed to resolve the matter ahead of the May 18 trial. Standard mediation procedures were followed, with each party negotiating from separate rooms.
As they exited the courthouse, Baldoni’s attorney Bryan Freedman confirmed the outcome.
The settlement discussion was “unsuccessful,” he told Deadline.
Freedman noted that “there’s always a chance” of a settlement, but added that he didn’t know whether Justin and Blake would resume talks about a potential pretrial deal.
When asked about the upcoming trial, he said he is “looking forward to it.”
The legal dispute began in December 2024 when Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and creating an unsafe work environment during and after the film’s press tour. She also alleged that Baldoni hired a crisis communication firm to orchestrate a smear campaign against her.
Baldoni responded with a $400 million countersuit alleging defamation and extortion. Both lawsuits were dismissed by a judge in June 2025. However, Lively’s lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and retaliation remains active.
The case has drawn widespread media attention. Recently, a judge unsealed text messages and emails showing communications between Lively and various celebrities, including Taylor Swift.
The situation has impacted both parties professionally and personally. Lively has stated that the fallout caused emotional distress and damage to her career. Baldoni has maintained his innocence and continues to defend his reputation.
With mediation unsuccessful, the case now appears headed toward trial.
