Warning: This episode contains descriptions of alleged sexual harassment, and a fictional portrayal of domestic violence.

Over the last few weeks, the Hollywood stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have gone to battle over exactly what happened during the making and promotion of their latest film.

It’s a dispute that has pulled back the curtain on an alleged smear campaign and the new set of tools that celebrities can use to defend themselves and redefine their enemies in the court of public opinion.

Megan Twohey, an investigative reporter at The New York Times, discusses the legal complaint that started it all.

Guests: Megan Twohey, an investigative reporter at The New York Times.

Background reading:

“We can bury anyone”: Inside a Hollywood smear machine.
Mr. Baldoni and his publicists have sued The New York Times for libel over its reporting about Ms. Lively’s allegations.

Photo: (l-r) Lia Toby/Getty Images; John Nacion/Variety, via Getty Images.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

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