The high-profile legal battle between actors Justin Baldoni and a major Hollywood co-star has taken an unexpected turn — one that now risks pulling pop superstar Taylor Swift and NFL icon Travis Kelce into the middle of a $400 million media storm. What began as an on-set harassment dispute has rapidly evolved into a celebrity-fueled scandal with far-reaching implications.
Taylor Swift named in legal filings despite her efforts to stay out of it
The lawsuit erupted after a December 2024 sexual harassment allegation filed by the co-star against Baldoni during the filming of It Ends With Us. In response, Baldoni filed a massive $400 million defamation counterclaim, which is now grabbing headlines not just for its size, but for who may be called to testify — including Taylor Swift.
Court documents reveal that Swift was allegedly name-dropped during internal production disputes, with claims she attended a post-production meeting at a private New York City apartment. While Swift has not commented publicly, the threat of being subpoenaed looms.
Her close ties to those involved in the lawsuit make the situation even more precarious. Despite previously attempting to stay far from the courtroom drama, Swift could now be placed under oath if the case moves forward as anticipated.
Legal teams clash over Taylor Swift's possible involvement
Mike Gottlieb, attorney for the plaintiff, strongly challenged Swift’s potential subpoena in a statement to People: “It’s completely unclear what claims or defenses in the case any of these celebrities... have any relevance to at all.” He went on to accuse Baldoni’s team of headline-chasing, saying, “You can’t just go around subpoenaing people because they’re famous... and the federal courts don’t tolerate that kind of behavior.”
Still, the courtroom may have its own rules when it comes to verifying alleged witness involvement, no matter how famous.
As Swift navigates this legal uncertainty, Travis Kelce — who’s been publicly supportive — appears to be stepping back from certain circles. Reports suggest Kelce recently unfollowed a fellow actor connected to the case on Instagram, fueling speculation of distancing due to behind-the-scenes tension.
Also Read: Travis Kelce's lavish gifts for Taylor Swift: From birthdays to Valentine’s Day, Kelce spares no expense
While Swift and her co-star have reportedly mended personal tensions, the legal pressure remains. With subpoenas potentially incoming and relationships being tested, this case has become more than just a Hollywood scandal — it's a pop culture flashpoint with real legal stakes.
Taylor Swift named in legal filings despite her efforts to stay out of it
The lawsuit erupted after a December 2024 sexual harassment allegation filed by the co-star against Baldoni during the filming of It Ends With Us. In response, Baldoni filed a massive $400 million defamation counterclaim, which is now grabbing headlines not just for its size, but for who may be called to testify — including Taylor Swift.
UH-OH! Taylor Swift has been OFFICIALLY SUBPOENAED by Justin Baldoni. Travis Kelce is next. That’s why he unfollowed Ryan Reynolds. I know him and Blake Lively are shitting bricks right about now 😂😂😂👇
— Melanie King (@realmelanieking) May 3, 2025
“Taylor Swift has now been subpoenaed. Some subpoenas are being sent this… pic.twitter.com/PxrNqJkdp7
Court documents reveal that Swift was allegedly name-dropped during internal production disputes, with claims she attended a post-production meeting at a private New York City apartment. While Swift has not commented publicly, the threat of being subpoenaed looms.
Her close ties to those involved in the lawsuit make the situation even more precarious. Despite previously attempting to stay far from the courtroom drama, Swift could now be placed under oath if the case moves forward as anticipated.
Legal teams clash over Taylor Swift's possible involvement
Mike Gottlieb, attorney for the plaintiff, strongly challenged Swift’s potential subpoena in a statement to People: “It’s completely unclear what claims or defenses in the case any of these celebrities... have any relevance to at all.” He went on to accuse Baldoni’s team of headline-chasing, saying, “You can’t just go around subpoenaing people because they’re famous... and the federal courts don’t tolerate that kind of behavior.”
Taylor Swift and Hugh Jackman to be subpoenaed in Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni’s legal war: report https://t.co/EXYMuwLCFh pic.twitter.com/pkGsbt4boE
— Page Six (@PageSix) April 23, 2025
Still, the courtroom may have its own rules when it comes to verifying alleged witness involvement, no matter how famous.
As Swift navigates this legal uncertainty, Travis Kelce — who’s been publicly supportive — appears to be stepping back from certain circles. Reports suggest Kelce recently unfollowed a fellow actor connected to the case on Instagram, fueling speculation of distancing due to behind-the-scenes tension.
Also Read: Travis Kelce's lavish gifts for Taylor Swift: From birthdays to Valentine’s Day, Kelce spares no expense
While Swift and her co-star have reportedly mended personal tensions, the legal pressure remains. With subpoenas potentially incoming and relationships being tested, this case has become more than just a Hollywood scandal — it's a pop culture flashpoint with real legal stakes.
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