Blake Lively files bombshell appeal against Justin Baldoni

Blake Lively's legal team seems to be trying their best to prove Justin Baldoni’s claims “baseless” ahead of their trial next year.

The 37-year-old actress filed a new appeal citing a California law that protects those from retaliation who have reported sexual misconduct.

The Gossip Girl alum and her team filed a motion on Thursday, March 20th, to dismiss Baldoni’s $400 million lawsuit.

The legal document called Baldoni’s complaint “vengeful and rambling” and an abuse of the legal system, as per People Magazine.

Lively’s lawyers argued that the lawsuit filed by the Jane the Virgin star is an attempt to “bury” Lively’s allegations and “destroy” her for speaking out.

The actress’ new filing alleged that Baldoni and his co-defendants should be subjected to California Civil Code Section 47.1, a new law that prohibits retaliatory lawsuits tied to sexual harassment. 

If the rule is implemented, Baldoni and his co-defendants would be required to bear the expenses for Lively’s legal fees, treble damages, and punitive damages.

A representative for Lively further added, "The painful reality is that Ms. Lively is not alone in being sued for defamation after speaking up about workplace sexual harassment. That is exactly why California recently enacted AB 933, which codified Civil Code Section 47.1.”

Baldoni and Lively’s trial is scheduled to star in court on March 9th, 2026.