Newly unsealed court documents have revealed a candid and emotionally charged exchange between Hollywood stars Blake Lively and Taylor Swift, offering rare insight into a period of strain in their long-standing friendship.
The private text messages, made public this week, were included in filings ahead of a January 22 summary judgment hearing in Lively’s lawsuit against actor and filmmaker Justin Baldoni. The documents suggest that tensions between Lively and Swift emerged quietly months before any public speculation, fueled by emotional exhaustion and personal upheaval.
Lively Reaches Out Over Growing Distance
According to the filings, Lively initiated the conversation, expressing concern that she may have unintentionally hurt Swift during a difficult phase in her life. Acknowledging that she had been “self-absorbed,” the actress asked directly if everything was okay between them, noting that her husband Ryan Reynolds encouraged her to speak openly.
Lively emphasized that she wanted to be a better friend and said she understood how overwhelmed Swift had been, stressing that she did not expect anything in return.
Swift Responds With Honest Feedback
More than an hour later, Swift replied with notable candor. She admitted feeling “exhausted in every avenue” of her life and said she had sensed a shift in Lively’s communication style, particularly during what she referred to as “a lot of Justin stuff.”
While acknowledging Lively’s kindness, Swift explained that some messages felt impersonal, comparing them to “a mass corporate email.” She added that she missed her friend’s usual humor and authenticity, reassuring Lively that no apology was necessary and asking her to simply “come back.”
Lively Opens Up About Identity Crisis
In her response hours later, Lively said the feedback resonated deeply. She admitted becoming “digitally … ” and texting more formally due to feeling misunderstood and emotionally shaken.
The actress linked this change to her experience with Baldoni, writing that the situation caused a profound identity crisis. She also shared that the most painful part was not public criticism, but friends she believed were allies who quietly disappeared.
Lively concluded the exchange by thanking Swift for her honesty, apologizing broadly, and expressing anger toward Baldoni, whom she has accused of sexual harassment and retaliation—allegations he has denied.
Friendship Tested Amid Legal Battle
The conversation took place just days before Swift concluded her record-breaking Eras Tour, with Lively ending on a supportive note about Swift finally getting relief from the physical toll of touring.
Sources have previously indicated that Lively’s legal dispute with Baldoni complicated her personal relationships. The newly revealed texts provide a rare, unfiltered glimpse into how that turmoil affected one of Hollywood’s most closely followed friendships.