Blake Lively has asked a court to dismiss Justin Baldoni's defamation lawsuit

Mike Gottlieb and Esra Hudson, the actress' attorneys, said in a statement: "This lawsuit is a profound abuse of the legal process that has no place in federal court.

"California law now expressly prohibits suing victims who speak out against sexual harassment or retaliation, whether in a lawsuit or in the press.

"This meritless and retaliatory lawsuit faces three insurmountable legal obstacles, including the litigation, fair report, and sexual harassment privileges. The latter contains a mandatory fee-shifting provision that will require billionaire Steve Sarowitz and Wayfarer Studios to pay damages.

"In an epic self-own, the Wayfarer Parties' attempt to sue Ms. Lively 'into oblivion' has only created more liability for them - deservedly so, given their actions."

The legal team argue that Baldoni should be subject to a newly enacted law, known as California Civil Code Section 47.1, that prevents retaliatory lawsuits linked to the public disclosures of sexual harassment.

A spokesperson for the actress said: "The painful reality is that Ms. Lively is not alone in being sued for defamation after speaking up about workplace sexual harassment. That is exactly why California recently enacted AB 933, which codified Civil Code Section 47.1.

"While Ms. Lively has suffered greatly for speaking up and pursuing legal claims, it is important for others to know that they have legal protections. There is a specific law that shields them from being silenced or financially ruined simply because they had the courage to tell their truth."

The former co-stars are due to appear in court on March 9, 2026. However, if Baldoni's lawsuit is dismissed, he could be forced to pay Lively's legal fees and punitive damages.