Blake Lively Deposition Sealed Amid Legal Fight With Justin Baldoni

In 2025, Blake Lively remains a prominent figure in entertainment, not only for her successful acting career but also due to a high-profile legal battle that has drawn widespread attention. Best known for her iconic role on Gossip Girl and recent films such as It Ends With Us and Another Simple Favor, Blake is now in the headlines after a court ruling that keeps her deposition confidential amid her ongoing lawsuit against co-star and director Justin Baldoni.

Here’s the latest, in detail, about the case, the judge’s ruling, and what it means for Blake’s privacy and career.

Background: The Legal Dispute Between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni

The drama off-screen started when Blake Lively accused Justin Baldoni, who directed and starred alongside her in It Ends With Us (2024), of sexual harassment during production. Lively also alleged that Baldoni launched a campaign to damage her professional reputation and personal life.

Baldoni responded with a countersuit, claiming defamation and accusing Blake, her husband Ryan Reynolds, their publicist, and The New York Times of attempting to destroy his career with false allegations.

The legal battle has been complex, with several lawsuits filed by both parties. However, courts have largely ruled in favor of Blake so far. A key moment came in June 2025 when a judge dismissed Baldoni’s countersuits, affirming that Lively’s sexual harassment claims are legally protected.

The Deposition Sealing: Judge Lewis Liman’s Landmark Decision

One of the most significant and recent developments came in August 2025. Blake Lively’s deposition a detailed, nearly 300-page transcript of her sworn testimony was set to be publicly filed as part of the court record.

However, Judge Lewis Liman, overseeing the case, stepped in and ruled that the deposition must be sealed and kept out of the public eye.

Judge Criticizes Baldoni’s Legal Team for Tactics

In a strongly worded court order, the judge sharply criticized the legal team representing Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios. The team had attached the entire deposition transcript to court filings but only referenced two pages in their legal arguments.

Judge Liman wrote:

“The Wayfarer Parties’ attachment of the entire, nearly 300-page deposition—after citing only two pages of it in the Letter served no proper litigation purpose and instead appears to have been intended to burden Lively (and as a result, the Court) and to invite public speculation and scandal.”

He went further:

“Even if the cited deposition portions were relevant… the Wayfarer Parties have not even attempted to argue that the entire deposition was relevant. Nor could they.”

The judge concluded that Baldoni’s lawyers submitted excessive irrelevant pages with the intent to cause trouble and to use Blake’s legal motions to keep them sealed as a public relations tactic. The court emphasized its duty not to allow such manipulation.

Consequently, Judge Liman granted Blake Lively’s motion to strike the deposition transcript from the court docket, ensuring it remains confidential and unavailable to media or the public.

Why Is This Sealing So Important?

Depositions are critical parts of legal proceedings. They contain detailed accounts of the person’s testimony and can include sensitive information. If released publicly, Blake’s deposition could have exposed her to intense media scrutiny and public speculation beyond the courtroom.

By sealing it, the court protects Blake’s privacy, allowing the trial to focus on legal merits rather than turning into a media spectacle.

The Strange Pay-Per-View Proposal

Adding an unusual chapter to the story, Justin Baldoni’s attorney, Bryan Freedman, suggested that Blake’s deposition be held as a pay-per-view event at Madison Square Garden. He claimed this could raise funds for domestic abuse charities and “make it count.”

This idea, reported widely in the media, was met with skepticism and was firmly rejected by the court. It further demonstrated how high-profile and controversial this case has become, mixing legal seriousness with public relations stunts.

What Happens Next? The Upcoming Trial

The trial is set to begin in March 2026, with both Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni expected to testify. The judge has made it clear that cameras will not be allowed in the courtroom, emphasizing the need for privacy and fairness in legal proceedings.

As the case moves forward, many in the industry and the public are watching closely, not only because of the allegations themselves but also due to the broader conversation it fuels about harassment, power dynamics, and reputation in Hollywood.

Blake Lively’s Career and Personal Life in 2025

Amidst the legal storm, she continues to maintain a successful career. In 2025, she reprised her role as Emily Nelson in Another Simple Favor, released on Amazon Prime Video, bringing back the mix of glamour and mystery fans love.

She remains a prominent figure in fashion, known for her elegant red carpet appearances and collaborations with major brands.

On the personal front, Blake is married to Ryan Reynolds, and together they have four children, including a son born in early 2023. They keep their family life mostly private but are often admired for their close, supportive relationship.

Conclusion

In 2025, Blake Lively stands as a strong and resilient figure, balancing a thriving acting career with a complicated and highly public legal battle. The court’s decision to seal her deposition safeguards her privacy amid an intense media spotlight, allowing her to focus on her upcoming trial and ongoing projects.

As the trial date nears, the world watches not just to see the legal outcome, but to witness how Blake navigates the pressures of fame, justice, and personal strength.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. Why is Blake Lively’s deposition sealed?

The judge ruled that Baldoni’s legal team tried to misuse the deposition by submitting the entire transcript while only citing a small portion, aiming to generate public scandal. Sealing protects her privacy.

Q2. What are the allegations against Justin Baldoni?

She alleges sexual harassment and a smear campaign aimed at damaging her career during the making of It Ends With Us.

Q3. When is the trial scheduled?

 The trial is set for March 2026.

Q4. What unusual proposal was made regarding Blake’s deposition?

Baldoni’s lawyer suggested holding a pay-per-view event at Madison Square Garden to broadcast Blake’s deposition, which the court rejected.