With a trial date set for the end of March and film director Justin Baldoni showing no sign of backing down, A-listers Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have a tough road ahead.
Justin, 41 has accused the couple of trying to ‘destroy’ him with false allegations, after Blake, 37, sued him in December with claims of sexual harassment and creating a toxic work environment on the set of hit movie, It Ends With Us. Now, Justin is seeking $400m for damages, and the case has shaken the celebrity couple to their core.
A source tells Closer, ‘The Baldoni camp is showing no signs of letting up. Knowing that all aspects of their pasts are being raked over with the finest of combs is unspeakably unsettling, as is the knowledge that Baldoni’s team are leaving no stone unturned in their persistent pursuit – they’re both worried that it could destroy them.’
It’s already shaping up to be a major showdown, especially now they’ve added yet another famous face to the mix – 35-year-old singer Taylor Swift. On set, Gossip Girl star Blake reminded Justin of her celebrity friends, texting him, ‘If you ever get around to watching ‘Game of Thrones,’ you’ll appreciate that I’m Khaleesi and, like her, I happen to have a few dragons. For better or worse, but usually for better,’ referencing close pal Taylor. The singer is reportedly not thrilled to have been dragged into the case, and may even have to appear in court.
But despite all the pain the trial has caused, Blake and Ryan, 48, are said to be determined that it won’t affect their marriage. The stars – who share children James, 10, Inez, eight, Betty, five, and Olin, two – tied the knot back in 2012, and sources tell us that their strong bond is getting them through the nightmare.
The source says, ‘It’s taken a major toll behind the scenes, but they’re sticking together and staying steadfast in their belief that the trauma will pass and ultimately bring them closer. Nobody could dispute that their bond is incredibly strong, they’re fully committed to the relationship, but they’re going through hell.
‘Both Blake and Ryan are longing for the day it’s all over and they can go back to living their normal lives again, but they’re aware that won’t be happening any time soon.’
