Actress Blake Lively has relied on a strong support network, including her close friend Taylor Swift, amid ongoing legal proceedings against Justin Baldoni, director of the 2024 film It Ends With Us.

According to newly unsealed court documents obtained by CNN, Lively spoke openly with friends about the difficulties she allegedly faced during the film’s production.

She has accused Baldoni and his production company, Wayfarer Studios, of sexual harassment and orchestrating a “plan” to damage her reputation.

The documents reveal that in one exchange, Lively referred to Baldoni as her “doofus director.”

In a later conversation, Swift texted Lively ahead of a New York Times story detailing the on-set issues, writing, “I think this bitch knows something is coming because he’s gotten out his tiny violin,” while referencing an Instagram post from People Magazine highlighting Baldoni’s claims of being “sexually traumatised.” Swift reportedly likened the situation to “a horror film no one knows is taking place.”

Lively’s legal team, led by attorney Sigrid McCawley, stated that the documents show concerns were documented as early as Spring 2023 and that Wayfarer failed to investigate, instead allegedly retaliating against Lively and others who spoke up.

Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, countered that the evidence does not support the claims and maintains confidence in clearing his client’s name.

The legal battle began after Lively filed a Civil Rights Department complaint in December 2024. Baldoni subsequently filed a $400 million defamation suit against Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, alleging that they “hijacked” his film and tried to ruin his career.

A judge dismissed Baldoni’s suits against the couple, as well as a suit against the New York Times, in June 2025.

The court documents also highlight Swift’s involvement in the case.

In May 2025, it was revealed that she had been subpoenaed after text exchanges bearing her name were included in Baldoni’s suit.

The judge denied Baldoni’s request for additional time to depose Swift in September 2025.

Swift’s connections to Lively extend beyond friendship. Lively directed the music video for Swift’s song I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor’s Version), and the singer is godmother to Lively and Reynolds’ three daughters.

Swift also attended events with the couple and her fiancé, NFL player Travis Kelce.

Other cast members, including actress Jenny Slate, are said to have raised concerns about the production.

Slate allegedly described the shoot as “a really gross and disturbing” experience.

The trial for Lively’s suit against Baldoni has been postponed from March 9 to May 18.