Inside Blake Lively's Met Gala power entry after settling 'It Ends With Us' lawsuit

Many onlookers were stunned when Blake Lively strutted in a glowing gown on the red carpet of the Met Gala.

The cause of surprise was that, just hours earlier, the actress settled her high-profile lawsuit with It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni, barely two weeks before trial.

The timing puzzled some spectators and observers, a few of whom even speculated whether Lively was actually invited at all.

Now, these wild speculations have been dismissed by a latest report in TMZ.

Insiders say the Green Lantern's actress moment at fashion's arguably biggest night was planned for weeks, in spite of her legal drama.

Her invitation came directly from fashion icon Anna Wintour herself, sources say, adding that Lively was set to stun the fans at the Met Gala, irrespective of whether she had reached a settlement in her lawsuit.

No cash in settling the lawsuit

Yet both parties hashed out the legal battle that had been going on for 2 years. Sources tell the outlet that no money was exchanged.

Interestingly, a joint statement, which seemed carefully curated, did not mention an apology for Lively.

“The end product – the movie ‘It Ends With Us’ – is a source of pride to all of us who worked to bring it to life," the carefully crafted statement read.

"Raising awareness and making a meaningful impact in the lives of domestic violence survivors – and all survivors – is a goal that we stand behind."

However, in the statement, the parties admitted the production was not easy-going.

"We acknowledge the process presented challenges and recognise concerns raised by Ms Lively deserved to be heard."

In a nod to the bitter legal battle, both parties stressed the need to keep workplaces free of "improprieties and unproductive environments".

In the end, the statement read, "It is our sincere hope that this brings closure and allows all involved to move forward constructively and in peace, including in a respectful environment online.”