Why 10 of 13 Claims Against Justin Baldoni Were Dismissed: Brett Cooper Breaks It Down

The high profile legal battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni has taken a massive turn. In a major ruling this April, a judge dismissed the majority of Lively’s claims. This included all allegations of sexual harassment. What remains is a significantly narrowed case focusing on contract disputes rather than workplace misconduct.

Watch the full breakdown in the video below:

Source: Brett Cooper

The Dismissal of Sexual Harassment Claims

While mainstream headlines have focused on a technicality, the judge’s order suggests a deeper lack of evidence for the most serious allegations.

• The Contractor vs Employee Hurdle: Federal anti discrimination laws including Title VII do not protect independent contractors. Because Lively exercised substantial control over the film through hiring, firing, and creative direction, she was ruled an independent contractor rather than a traditional employee.
• The PGA Letter Irony: In a move that proved to be exhibit A for the defense, Lively’s own letter to the Producers Guild of America (PGA) was used against her. Her claims of having total control over every moment of production helped disqualify her status as a vulnerable employee.
• Contextual Evidence: The judge noted that many disputed interactions occurred within the social context of acting or creative development for a film based on adult themes. These did not necessarily reflect gender based bias.

The PR Pivot: Rewriting the Case History

As the sexual harassment claims fell away, the Lively team’s narrative shifted.

• Narrowing the Scope: The case now centers on breach of contract and retaliation regarding the film’s release and premiere logistics.
• Changing the Goalposts: Recent statements from Lively’s camp now claim the case has always been about retaliation for standing up for set safety. This downplays the sexual harassment claims previously described as the main point of the suit.
• The Remaining Trial: The case moves to trial in May 2026. It will focus on the alleged smear campaign and the power struggle over the film’s final edit.
  

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