Blake Lively allegedly humiliated by judge in legal battle with Justin Baldoni

During an urgent court hearing, Blake Lively reportedly faced harsh comments from the presiding judge, Lewis Liman, who cautioned her that “celebrity is fleeting.” The judge also revealed he had no prior knowledge of her or her opponent, Justin Baldoni, before taking on the case.

The judge’s remarks appeared to mirror the viral retort “I don’t know her,” famously associated with Mariah Carey. The comments came just before Lively was scheduled for a deposition, with Baldoni’s lawyer, Kevin Fritz, suggesting that Lively was receiving special treatment due to her celebrity status. The judge, however, interrupted Fritz, emphasizing that accusations of favoritism were a serious issue.

“I am aware that both [Baldoni] and [Lively] are well-known figures,” Liman stated. “Prior to this case, I did not know their identities. Their fame is irrelevant, as celebrity can be transient, and it has no bearing on the court’s proceedings.” He further added, “Let’s make celebrity irrelevant and focus on the facts.”

The legal dispute began in December 2024 when Lively filed a lawsuit accusing Baldoni of sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign to damage her reputation. Baldoni denied the allegations and countersued for extortion and defamation, involving her husband, Ryan Reynolds, in the process. However, in June, the judge dismissed Baldoni’s lawsuit.

Lively had requested to choose her deposition location, which was granted, and her deposition is now scheduled for July 31. The case continues to unfold amid statements highlighting the importance of treating all parties equally, regardless of fame.

Responses from representatives of Lively, Baldoni, or the judge have not yet been made public.