Justin Baldoni has submitted a text message from It Ends With Us co-star Isabela Ferrer to counter Blake Lively’s harassment claims. The message, he argues, shows that the cast supported him during the filming process.
Blake Lively’s Lawsuit Against Baldoni
In January, Blake Lively sued Justin Baldoni for sexual harassment while filming It Ends With Us. Later, Baldoni countersued both Blake and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, accusing them of civil extortion and defamation.
The Text Message Submitted in Court
Baldoni filed a message from Isabela Ferrer with the U.S. District Court in New York. The text, sent on July 11, 2023, read:
“Hey!! Just got my film developed from when we were shooting so here’s this sweet pic! I also have to say thank you SO so much for an incredible experience on my first film. I still can’t shake the feeling of it all because it truly was life-changing for me. You are such a wonderful, smart, and sincere director, and you created such a comfortable, safe space for me to feel like I could fully step into this role. I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming environment. It will stay with me for the rest of my life!! See you soon, whether in the fall or later, & Hope you’re doing well 🙂 X.”
In response, Baldoni texted:
“You were such a joy and pleasure to work with. Your openness, your raw talent, your kindness, and your excitement made me fall in love with directing again. You have a big career in front of you!!”
Baldoni’s Argument: Cast Supported Him
Baldoni argues that this text proves the cast had a positive experience with him. He claims that Blake’s actions during post-production led to his exclusion from the project.
The Fallout from It Ends With Us
Baldoni alleges that after Blake took over post-production, she removed him from publicity materials. Blake and Ryan also unfollowed him on social media. He claims this caused others to follow suit. Colleen Hoover, the author of the novel, also distanced herself from him.
Baldoni believes Blake created a false narrative, implying he had harmed her. This, he says, led to the backlash he faced.