Met Gala 2026: Blake Lively Dazzles on Red Carpet Hours After Settling ‘It Ends With Us’ Legal Dispute

Hollywood icon Blake Lively made a triumphant return to the Met Gala steps, turning heads with her signature style and poise. Her radiant appearance came just hours after news broke that her long-standing legal battle involving It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni has been officially settled.

The Settlement: Closing the Chapter on ‘It Ends With Us’

The settlement brings an end to a high-profile dispute that began in late 2024. Blake Lively had filed a retaliation lawsuit against Baldoni, his production company, and a PR firm. The agreement was reached in Manhattan just two weeks before the case was slated to go to trial.

In a joint statement, the legal teams—represented by Bryan Freedman, Ellyn Garofalo, Michael Gottlieb, and Esra Hudson—emphasized the film’s message:

“The end product, the movie ‘It Ends With Us,’ is a source of pride to all of us. Raising awareness for survivors of domestic violence remains a goal we firmly stand behind. We recognize the process presented challenges, and the concerns raised by Ms. Lively deserved to be heard.”

The statement further noted a mutual commitment to maintaining productive and respectful workplaces, signaling a constructive end to the friction that had overshadowed the film’s promotion.

Met Gala 2026: ‘Fashion Is Art’

Embracing this year’s theme, ‘Costume Art,’ and the dress code ‘Fashion Is Art,’ Lively arrived in a breathtaking pastel-toned masterpiece.

• The Look: Her gown featured a spectrum of peach, lavender, and yellow hues, anchored by a bejeweled bodice and a dramatic, flowing train.
• The Vibe: Fashion critics noted that the ensemble echoed the grandeur of her iconic 2022 “Statue of Liberty” dress, proving once again why she is considered the “Queen of the Met Gala.”

Notable Guests and Absences

While fans were disappointed that her husband, Ryan Reynolds, was absent from the festivities, the Reynolds-Lively circle was well-represented. Ryan’s Deadpool & Wolverine co-star Hugh Jackman attended the gala alongside Sutton Foster, maintaining the star power the event is known for.

Current Projects: ‘Another Simple Favor’

Beyond the red carpet and legal news, Lively is currently celebrating the release of ‘Another Simple Favor’ (2025). The sequel to the 2019 hit, directed by Paul Feig and co-starring Anna Kendrick, is currently streaming on Prime Video.

Conclusion

Blake Lively’s appearance at the Met Gala serves as a symbolic fresh start. By settling the legal hurdles just before the biggest night in fashion, she managed to shift the global conversation back to her artistry and professional achievements.

Disclaimer: This report is based on information provided by legal representatives and media reports. It is intended for informational purposes only. For further details on the legal settlement, refer to official court filings in Manhattan.