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A newly revealed late-night voice memo has added another layer to the complex legal dispute between "It Ends With Us" co-stars Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively. The two-minute recording, which surfaced on January 27, 2025, captures Baldoni apologizing to Lively over creative differences regarding a pivotal rooftop scene.
"I f--ked up," Baldoni can be heard saying in the recording, which was reportedly sent around April 2023. "One thing you should know about me is that I will admit and apologize when I fail. I am far from perfect."
The dispute began in December 2024 when Lively filed a California Civil Rights Department complaint against Baldoni and his Wayfarer Studios associates, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation. The complaint detailed claims of "invasive, unwelcome, unprofessional and sexually inappropriate behavior" on set.
In response, Baldoni filed a $400 million countersuit on January 16, 2025, accusing Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds of defamation and extortion. The lawsuit alleges that Lively attempted to seize creative control of the film, using high-profile connections, including Taylor Swift, to influence the production.
The situation has garnered support from various industry figures. "It Ends With Us" author Colleen Hoover publicly backed Lively, stating on social media, "You have been nothing but honest, kind, supportive and patient since the day we met." Cast member Jenny Slate also voiced her support for Lively, describing the situation as "terribly dark, disturbing, and wholly threatening."
The controversy has led to professional repercussions, including Baldoni's separation from William Morris Endeavor (WME) talent agency. Additionally, Liz Plank, Baldoni's co-host on "The Man Enough Podcast," announced her departure from the show in December.
Recent developments include Lively and Reynolds seeking a gag order against Baldoni's attorney, Bryan Freedman, citing concerns about "improper conduct" in public statements. Freedman has maintained his clients' innocence and expressed intention to release evidence showing "a pattern of bullying and threats."
