ESPN has parted ways with Shannon Sharpe following a settlement in a $50 million lawsuit alleging sexual assault and battery, according to a report from The Athletic on Wednesday.
The former Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end and media commentator settled the lawsuit less than two weeks after it was filed by his ex-girlfriend.
Sharpe, who last appeared on ESPN in April, had stepped away from his on-air duties following the initial filing of the lawsuit. He vehemently denied the allegations, describing them as a “shakedown” and asserting that his relationship with the accuser was entirely consensual.
The lawsuit, filed in April 2025, accused Sharpe of sexual assault in October 2024 and January 2025, along with claims of intentional infliction of emotional distress. It is alleged that he recorded their sexual encounters without her consent.
The settlement, announced by attorney Tony Buzbee on July 18, led to the dismissal of the lawsuit without divulging specific terms. Buzbee, representing the woman identified as “Jane Doe,” acknowledged a tumultuous but consensual relationship between the parties. In his statement, Buzbee emphasized the resolution of all matters to both parties’ satisfaction, effectively closing the case.
Sharpe, 57, had joined ESPN’s “First Take” in 2023, initially appearing twice weekly alongside Stephen A. Smith. His departure marks the end of his tenure at ESPN, following a storied career in the NFL where he won three Super Bowls and retired in May 2004 after accumulating over 10,000 career receiving yards, a first for tight ends.
Beyond his ESPN appearances, Sharpe hosts podcasts like “Club Shay Shay” and “Nightcap” alongside former wide receiver Chad Ochocinco. These podcasts are produced and distributed by The Volume, a sports media company founded by FS1 personality Colin Cowherd.
