Justin Baldoni pokes fun at skipping ‘Sexual Harassment Training’ in new video
Amid the legal battle between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively from the set of ‘It Ends with Us,’ a newly-released behind-the-scenes video captured Baldoni making a controversial joke about missing “sexual harassment training.” The clip showcases Baldoni’s comment causing discomfort among crew members as they prepared to shoot a bar scene.
In the video filed by Baldoni’s studio, Wayfarer, the director was seen conversing with Lively and co-star Jenny Slate at a table. During the conversation, Baldoni’s offhand remark of the word “sexy” directed towards Lively led to several crew members exchanging uneasy glances. Despite Baldoni’s legal team deeming the comment as normal and innocent, the reactions from the crew suggested otherwise.
According to Baldoni’s attorneys, Lively was not in revealing attire but wearing a fleece onesie like the other actors. They argued that Baldoni’s expression was neutral and not suggestive or inappropriate. Lively herself seemed unperturbed by the comment, responding with a casual “All good,” although her voice was not audible in the recording.
However, Baldoni’s subsequent remark after apologizing to Slate for missing the sexual harassment training by dramatically rolling his eyes into the camera has sparked online controversy. Critics denounced the eye-roll as dismissive of concerns about workplace behavior, particularly considering Baldoni’s dual role as director and employer on set.
Online reactions to the video ranged from disbelief to outrage, with many pointing out the discomfort felt by those around Baldoni during the interaction. The video surfaced at a crucial juncture in the ongoing legal dispute between Lively and Baldoni, with the actor recently presenting a deleted scene showing Lively engaging in unscripted physical contact during filming.
The deleted scene depicted Lively’s character unexpectedly kissing Baldoni’s character, with Baldoni’s legal team asserting that Lively not only approved the unscripted kiss but also orchestrated it in multiple takes. Despite Lively’s accusations of sexual harassment and retaliation against Baldoni, the actor vehemently denies the allegations.
As the legal battle between Baldoni and Lively intensifies, the behind-the-scenes video serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and controversies that can arise in the entertainment industry. The blurred lines between fiction and reality, professionalism and personal conduct, continue to pose challenges for those working in creative fields, underscoring the importance of maintaining boundaries and respect in a professional setting.