It Ends With…A Settlement? Part III

With a new settlement signed, both parties are claiming a resounding victory — a stark difference from the media mud-slinging that has affected Lively, Baldoni, and Wayfarer studios since the start. So what’s the deal? 

Why Choose To Settle So Close To Trial?

If you’ve been following the “It Ends With Us” legal drama (you can find Part I and Part II here), the decision to settle was surprising. Despite the judge throwing out her claims of sexual harassment, there was still claims of a PR smear campaign and a contract breach left to debate in trial, and Lively was prepared to continue on her legal pursuit. 

So when Lively reported the parties had come to an agreement with a settlement while attending the MET Gala on May 4th, the public was surprised by the sudden change of pace. But given the high-profile case, many big Hollywood names would be affected by the legal spectacle going to trial, most notably Blake Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and Justin Baldoni. 

It’s highly likely that the negative press surrounding the legal issues on set prompted the parties to settle shortly before trial to prevent any possible damage to their reputation. This is not seen often in the general public, but it happens frequently within Hollywood.

However, in Hollywood, it usually ends with a big pay out. 

The Settlement Terms

There’s no non-disclosure agreement, no money exchanged (thus far), and Lively is free to pursue a suit against Baldoni in California courts. A motion has been filed by Lively requesting Wayfarer pay for her attorney fees, and if she wins, that will be the only money paid out. Otherwise, no one comes out financially on top. 

Interestingly, Wayfarer studios and Baldoni have waived their right to appeal. While they are also claiming victory, Lively has indicated this isn’t the end of her legal pursuit, so it’s hard to say why Baldoni specifically waived his rights against appeals. 

What Happens Next For Baldoni & Lively?

For a movie named, “It Ends With Us” the legal battles are far from over. Now, Lively plans to pursue action against Baldoni for filing a defamation suit. 

She will be fighting to prove that his defamation suit was in response to her sexual harassment claims, which means the legal fight is far from over. Baldoni may need to pay Lively according to California law, but that will be up to the judge. 

The PR teams are also headed to court, with a massive he-said, she-said web of targeted media campaigns featuring Stephane Jones (Lively’s agent) and Melissa Abel (Wayfarer Studios and Baldoni’s agent). Depending upon how their legal battle goes, it’s possible Lively, Baldoni, and everyone associated will be called for testimony. 

Find A Trustworthy Attorney To Represent You In Court

At the end of the day, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have spent millions on attorneys and legal fees preparing for a trial that never saw the light of court. Don’t let that be you — find a lawyer who will fight for you in court or secure a fair settlement agreement.

Ready to start your search? Hickey & Hull Law Partners makes the process easy; start an online chat with our live agent today and book your consultation appointment or call (479) 434-2414.