Lively’s lawsuit alleges sexual harassment and retaliation Lively filed a civil suit in December 2024 accusing director Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and a coordinated smear campaign against her reputation, naming Wayfarer Studios as a defendant [1][2]. Baldoni denied the allegations and his $400 million counter‑suit was dismissed by a judge in June 2025 [1]. The complaint also details on‑set behavior concerns and claims Wayfarer attempted to bury whistleblowers [1][2].

Trial scheduled for May 2026 after multiple delays judge set the trial for May 18, 2026 after Lively’s original March 9 date was postponed in December 2025 [2]. A hearing held on Thursday moved the case forward and confirmed the new schedule [1]. Both parties have indicated they are preparing for a full trial on the merits [2].

Wayfarer Studios accused of ignoring complaints and retaliation Court filings show Wayfarer documented harassment concerns in real time but refused to launch an investigation, instead retaliating against employees who raised the issues [1][2]. The company’s alleged hostile environment is linked to the production and promotion of the film It Ends With Us, which Wayfarer produced [1][3]. These allegations form a central part of Lively’s claim that the studio enabled Baldoni’s misconduct [2].

Taylor Swift’s texts reveal personal support and legal involvement Unsealed documents include private texts between Lively and Swift in which Swift calls Baldoni a “doofus director” and jokes about him pulling out a “tiny violin” [2][3]. Swift was subpoenaed in May 2025 as part of Baldoni’s suit, but a judge denied a deposition request in September 2025 [2]. The exchange highlights Swift’s role as a confidante and public ally for Lively during the litigation [2][3].