Blake Lively’s representative issued a fierce rebuke against Justin Baldoni’s legal team for subpoenaing Taylor Swift in their ongoing legal battle, labelling it a sensationalist tactic and an attack on women’s rights.
The controversy, part of a $400 million countersuit by Baldoni against Lively’s sexual harassment claims related to their film It Ends With Us, has escalated tensions, with Lively’s team accusing Baldoni of misusing the courts for a media spectacle rather than addressing serious allegations.
Lively’s spokesperson condemned Baldoni, his Wayfarer Studios partner Steve Sarowitz, and attorney Bryan Freedman for involving Swift, a close friend of Lively, in the lawsuit. The subpoena, served as part of Baldoni’s defamation and extortion countersuit, followed Lively’s civil rights complaint alleging harassment, sexual remarks, and a toxic set environment.
Taylor Swift believes Blake Lively 'exploited' her: Heartbroken singer finally lays bare former bestie's betrayal and the move that's left her 'completely floored' https://t.co/t8kFCMc6dn
— Daily Mail US (@DailyMail) May 12, 2025The rep called Freedman’s suggestion that Lively testify at Madison Square Garden “Barnum & Bailey’s Circus,” emphasising the case’s focus on harassment and power abuse, not publicity stunts.
Swift’s Non-Involvement
Swift’s representative clarified she had no role in It Ends With Us, stating, “She never visited the set, never provided creative feedback, didn’t score the film, and saw it only weeks after its public release.” Baldoni’s team cited a message from Lively referring to Swift and husband Ryan Reynolds as her “dragons,” interpreting it as a threat of influential support. Swift’s team dismissed the subpoena as a headline-grabbing move, while social media posts noted strained ties, with Travis Kelce reportedly unfollowing Reynolds on social media.
“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.”
— Taylor Swift’s rep slams Justin Baldoni’s legal team after they subpoenaed her in the Baldoni-Blake Lively case. pic.twitter.com/gV7GRliG6p
— Pop Base (@PopBase) May 9, 2025Lively’s lawsuit accuses Baldoni of misconduct, including intruding during breastfeeding, making inappropriate remarks, and retaliating against her and other women on set. Baldoni denies the claims, alleging defamation and extortion in his countersuit.
Lively’s team criticised Baldoni’s challenge to a California law protecting harassment victims, framing it as part of a broader anti-women pattern. The trial, set for March 2026, continues to draw attention to its implications for workplace behaviour and gender dynamics.
