In a developing legal saga, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are grappling over newly released footage from the filming of It Ends With Us that aims to clarify contrasting narratives regarding alleged on-set misconduct. Baldoni’s legal team has unveiled nearly ten minutes of behind-the-scenes video, asserting that the clips demonstrate his mutual respect and professionalism towards Lively.

Lively filed a lawsuit against Baldoni in December, alleging inappropriate and unwanted behavior on set, accusations he fiercely denies. The actress claimed that during the filming of a slow-dance scene, Baldoni acted outside the bounds of acceptable conduct, specifically citing an incident where he purportedly leaned in and said it “smells so good” while caressing her neck. In contrast, Baldoni's team contends that the footage will "clearly refute" these claims, noting that the scene was intended to convey the romance between their characters, Ryle Kincaid and Lily Bloom.

According to the USA Today, the released video shows both actors engaging in seemingly friendly banter while filming the romantic sequence. However, Lively’s legal representatives argue that the clips reinforce her claims, asserting that every moment captured demonstrates Baldoni’s discomforting behavior. They stated, "No woman should have to take defensive measures to avoid being touched by their employer without their consent."

The footage includes the two actors discussing which direction to take within the scene, with Baldoni even leaning in and making light of their proximity. Lively, while joking about her spray tan, was seen laughing but simultaneously leaning away, indicating her discomfort, as highlighted by Newsweek.

Lively's legal team criticized the release of this video as a "stunt" intended to manipulate public perception rather than present evidence in the court. They expressed that Baldoni is attempting to turn the tables in the ongoing litigation. Meanwhile, Baldoni has filed a counter-suit for defamation against Lively and her husband, claiming they attempted to sabotage his reputation through orchestrated smear campaigns.

As this intense conflict progresses, the public scrutiny surrounding the implications of on-set conduct in the film industry continues to gain traction. The outcome of this dispute may shape industry policies regarding filming intimate scenes as well as how such sensitive allegations are managed in Hollywood.

For further details, check out the original articles from BBC and The Daily Beast.