Blake Lively Files Sexual Harassment Complaint Against Justin Baldoni
In a shocking turn of events, actress Blake Lively has filed a complaint against actor and director Justin Baldoni, alleging sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior during the filming of their movie "Never Say Never Again." The complaint, which surfaced in the New York Times, details a series of troubling incidents that Lively claims caused her significant emotional distress. Lively, who portrays Lily Bloom in the film, accuses Baldoni of orchestrating a "multi-layered plan" to damage her reputation after she reported his alleged misconduct.
Allegations of Misconduct and a Smear Campaign
The allegations against Baldoni include unwanted physical advances, such as imposed kisses, and inappropriate discussions about his sexual life. Lively also claims that producer Jamey Heath violated her privacy by watching her change and showing her explicit videos of his wife. Following her complaints, Lively asserts that a smear campaign against her began, manifesting in negative online content and social media posts aimed at discrediting her. In her statement, Lively expressed hope that her lawsuit would shed light on retaliatory tactics used against those who report wrongdoing.
Background of the Film and Public Response
"Never Say Never Again," adapted from Colleen Hoover's best-selling novel, explores themes of manipulation and abuse in romantic relationships. The film, released in August 2024, grossed over $50 million in the U.S. and attracted more than 1.3 million viewers in France. The controversy surrounding the film's production has fueled speculation online, particularly regarding the relationship between Lively and Baldoni, who notably did not appear together during the film's promotional campaign. Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, has vehemently denied Lively's allegations, labeling them as false and intended to harm his client's reputation.
