How to Destroy a Reputation in Hollywood, as Told in 5 Women’s Lawsuits

How to Destroy a Reputation in Hollywood, as Told in 5 Women’s Lawsuits​

In recent years, at least five women have filed lawsuits describing malicious public relations campaigns intended to destroy their reputations.

While the lawsuits differ, they all claim the smear campaigns were carried out through anonymous websites, fabricated social media posts or promotion of unflattering articles and posts on the internet. They describe a new lane in the field of crisis management where public relations, legal services and the dark web converge.

The highest-profile lawsuit came from the actress Blake Lively, who said a campaign was waged against her in 2024 in retaliation for accusing the actor Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment. Mr. Baldoni denied the claims and filed a countersuit, which was dismissed.

Ms. Lively, in her lawsuit, which was settled earlier this year with no payout of damages, described a coordinated social media campaign orchestrated by three businesspeople — a Los Angeles lawyer, a New York publicist and a Texas digital strategist.

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