A federal judge in New York dismissed the sexual harassment claims brought by actress Blake Lively against actor and director Justin Baldoni, significantly narrowing the lawsuit stemming from the filming of “It Ends With Us.” The decision was made by Judge Lewis Liman, who issued a 152-page ruling after more than a year of litigation.

Lively had alleged that Baldoni crossed the line during several scenes in the film, including a dance sequence and a childbirth scene in which, according to the actress, she was pressured to wear little clothing and simulate nudity. However, the judge concluded that the actions in question were directed at the character portrayed by Lively and not at the actress personally.

The judge also determined that Lively could not proceed with her harassment claims under federal law because she worked as an independent contractor rather than as an employee. In addition, he noted that the actress filed part of the lawsuit under a California law even though the alleged incidents took place outside that state.

However, the case was not completely dismissed. The court allowed Lively to move forward with her retaliation claim against Wayfarer Studios, Baldoni’s production company. The actress argues that after she voiced concerns about the working environment, a campaign was organized to damage her public image and limit her professional opportunities.

The trial will begin on May 18 and is expected to continue drawing attention in Hollywood. The dispute has already indirectly involved figures such as Taylor Swift, Gigi Hadid and Hugh Jackman, whom Lively considers possible witnesses. Baldoni’s attorneys, meanwhile, welcomed the ruling and said they will now face a “much narrower” case.