Justin Baldoni Reportedly Closes Charity to Cover Legal Costs in Blake Lively Lawsuit

All the legal chaos that ensued following the filming and advertising campaign for "It Ends With Us" is fueling lawyers and defunding the philanthropic activities of the film's director and actor, Justin Baldoni. His Wayfarer Foundation appears to be the first victim.

The actor and filmmaker and his partners were forced to close the foundation due to high legal costs. This is generating lawsuits and countersuits against Blake Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and other professionals connected to them and the film who work behind the scenes.

This was announced on the non-profit organization's website:

Over the past four years, Wayfarer Foundation has supported dozens of grantee partners in fulfilling their missions. I am so incredibly proud of the impact this organization has made and deeply grateful for our staff, board, donors, and partners.

Upon unanimous decision of the board of directors, on Friday, May 2nd, we began the process of sunsetting the Foundation. We will honor all of our current grant commitments as we carefully wind down operations over the next several weeks. Although the Wayfarer Foundation is closing, my personal commitment to giving remains strong, and I'm dedicated to making an impact on society through the ongoing mission and work.

We understand that this news may come as a surprise, and we will be actively working over the next several weeks to ensure all matters are concluded with care and attention.

With gratitude,
Steve Sarowitz
Founder, Wayfarer Foundation

Sources close to Baldoni and his partner Steve Sarowitz told entertainment outlet TMZ that they "feel like they've been kicked in the stomach."

Despite the closure, Sarowitz intends to fulfill his $100 million donation to the organizations supported by the foundation. The $35 million remains to be distributed, to be disbursed over the coming months and into 2026, sources said.

The cases surrounding 'It Ends With Us'

The legal dispute between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, co-stars of the film Breaking the Circle (It Ends With Us), has escalated considerably since December 2024, when she sued him for sexual harassment and orchestrating a smear campaign after reporting his conduct on set.

Baldoni countersued with a $400 million countersuit for defamation and civil extortion, including Ryan Reynolds and publicist Leslie Sloane as co-defendants. Both sides have requested dismissal of each other's claims, and a trial is scheduled for March 2026.