Recently, in new details about Blake Lively’s lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, Taylor Swift’s name has been mentioned.
As many know, the pop star has been great friends with Blake Lively for almost a decade, and it is common to see the actress at the concerts of the “Cruel Summer” interpreter. But why is she implicated in all this mess?
Taylor Swift Named in Blake Lively’s Lawsuit Against Justin Baldoni
Taylor is an important factor in the “scenario planning document” drafted by Justin Baldoni’s public relations team at TAG PR:
“The Scenario Planning document states that TAG could ‘also explore planting stories about the weaponization of feminism and how people in [Lively’s] circle like Taylor Swift, have been accused of utilizing these tactics to ‘bully’ into getting what they want,’” the lawsuit details.
It is worth mentioning that TAG is a company led by Scooter Braun, who in 2019 acquired the rights to the singer’s albums for 300 million dollars without her consent.
“We have seen the most innocuous issues turn giant due to socials or the hugest crisis have no effects on social whatsoever- you just cannot tell at this stage,” crisis management expert Melissa Nathan allegedly wrote in a message according to People. “But, [Lively] does have some of the [Swift] fanbase so we will be taking it extremely seriously.”
It is alleged that Baldoni’s PR team was planning a social media strategy to deflect hatred and direct it towards Blake Lively, however, it was considered that, due to her great friendship with Taylor, the actress would have the support of the Swifties, who would not hesitate to defend the megastar’s friend.
What Happened Between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively?
Blake Lively has accused Baldoni of sexual harassment and engaging in a smear campaign against her. In her complaint, Lively alleges that Baldoni improvised non-consensual kisses during filming and made inappropriate sexual comments, creating a toxic work environment.
She further claims that after voicing her concerns, Baldoni and his PR team retaliated by attempting to tarnish her reputation, which negatively impacted her career and personal life. Baldoni, through his lawyer, has denied the accusations, calling them false.
The allegations have prompted significant backlash against Baldoni within Hollywood. His talent agency, WME, has ceased representing him. Author Colleen Hoover and several of Lively’s colleagues from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants have publicly supported Lively. Sony Pictures has also condemned Baldoni’s alleged actions.