Blake Lively Awarded $407K in Baldoni Defamation Case

Blake Lively Awarded $407K in Baldoni Defamation Case

A U.S. federal judge has awarded actress Blake Lively $407,000 for legal fees, following her successful defense against a defamation lawsuit from actor Justin Baldoni. This sum represents approximately 5% of the $8.04 million Lively had sought.

Dispute Context and Judicial Rationale

The legal dispute began with Baldoni's defamation suit in January 2025, filed after Lively accused him and Wayfarer Studios of alleged sexual harassment and retaliation concerning their film "It Ends With Us." Lively's harassment claims were dismissed, but she could pursue retaliation claims against Wayfarer.

U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman found Lively's requested legal hours excessive. The award was limited primarily to defamation defense costs, excluding media relations expenses.

Legal Precedent and Industry Impact

This ruling marks the first award under a 2023 California law designed to protect sexual harassment accusers from retaliatory defamation lawsuits. Lively's lawyers called the decision "historic," emphasizing accountability.

Baldoni's attorney viewed the reduced award as a victory. Both parties agreed not to appeal the legal fees decision.

FAQ

Q: What was the final amount awarded to Blake Lively?

A: Blake Lively was awarded $407,000 for legal fees.

Q: Why was the awarded amount less than requested?

A: The judge deemed billed hours excessive, limiting reimbursement to defamation defense.

Q: What legal precedent does this ruling set?

A: It is the first award under a California law protecting accusers from retaliatory defamation lawsuits.

Source: Investing.com