The fallout from the It Ends With Us film continues to unfold in an explosive legal battle between stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, whose off-screen drama has taken center stage nearly a year after the movie’s release. What began as a high-profile adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel has since turned into a courtroom saga, with sexual harassment allegations, defamation lawsuits, and now, the unexpected involvement of global pop icon Taylor Swift.
The Legal Timeline
Blake Lively, 37, initiated the legal proceedings in December 2024 by filing a lawsuit against Baldoni, 41, who not only starred opposite her in the film but also served as its producer and director through Wayfarer Studios. In her complaint, Lively accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and alleged that he orchestrated a targeted smear campaign against her following internal tensions during the film’s production and release.
In response, Baldoni vehemently denied the allegations and launched a countersuit seeking a staggering $400 million in damages. His defamation claim named not only Lively but also her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds, and their longtime publicist Leslie Sloane, accusing them of “publicly maligning” his character and professional reputation.
A trial date for Lively v. Wayfarer Studios has been scheduled for March 2026, setting the stage for what is expected to be one of Hollywood’s most high-profile legal showdowns in recent memory.
Taylor Swift Drawn Into the Crossfire
In a surprising twist, the case gained international attention with the revelation that Taylor Swift, 35, had been subpoenaed as a witness. According to Baldoni’s legal filings, Swift was described as one of Lively’s “most trusted partners” and a “mega celebrity friend,” who may have allegedly been influenced to support Lively in the legal dispute.
Swift’s legal team swiftly issued a sharp rebuke. In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, her representatives clarified:
“Taylor Swift never set foot on the set of this movie. She was not involved in any casting or creative decisions, she did not score the film, she never saw an edit or made any notes on the film, she did not even see It Ends With Us until weeks after its public release.”
The statement added that Swift’s only connection to the film was the licensing of her track “My Tears Ricochet”, one of 20 songs used in the soundtrack.
“This document subpoena is designed to use Taylor Swift’s name to draw public interest by creating tabloid clickbait instead of focusing on the facts of the case.”
Allegations of Coercion and a Fractured Friendship
Despite Swift’s attempts to stay out of the controversy, Baldoni’s team has now accused Lively of attempting to “coerce” Swift into publicly taking her side. Specifically, they claim Lively urged Swift to “release a statement of support” amidst rising tensions.
Lively’s attorneys have called the accusation “categorically false,” but the damage may already be done. Sources close to the situation have told PEOPLE that the drama has strained Lively and Swift’s close-knit friendship.
“Their friendship has halted,” one source revealed. “Taylor wants no part in this drama.”
“They’re taking some space,” another insider clarified, emphasizing that while the pair are not estranged, their relationship has clearly been impacted by the case.
What’s Next?
With the trial looming and both legal teams digging in, the battle between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni shows no signs of slowing down. The involvement of high-profile figures like Ryan Reynolds and Taylor Swift has only intensified public scrutiny, transforming a personal and professional dispute into a full-blown media spectacle.
Whether Swift will be compelled to testify remains uncertain, but her unwilling presence in the case underscores how wide-reaching the consequences of the lawsuit have become. As March 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on the courtroom — and the fallout that may continue to reverberate across Hollywood.
This story is developing. Check back for updates.
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