Shannon Sharpe reportedly out at ESPN after settlement of sexual assault suit
Shannon Sharpe Parts Ways with ESPN Amidst Legal Settlement
Sports Commentator's Brief Stint Ends After Lawsuit Resolution
Shannon Sharpe will not be returning to ESPN, marking the end of his short but highly publicized run as a commentator on "First Take." The decision follows a legal settlement reached just two weeks ago with a former girlfriend who had accused him of rape.
Silence from ESPN as Sharpe's Future Remains Unclear
The Athletic first reported the move on Wednesday, citing anonymous sources familiar with the situation. ESPN has declined to comment publicly and no official announcement has been made. Sharpe, 57, last appeared on ESPN in late April, shortly after the lawsuit was filed in Nevada. At the time, he vehemently denied the accusations, calling them "false and disruptive," and expressed his expectation to return for NFL training camps.
Lawsuit Dismissed After Private Settlement
The lawsuit, brought by a woman identified as Jane Doe, sought $50 million in damages for alleged "pain and suffering, psychological and emotional distress, mental anguish, embarrassment and humiliation." Sharpe characterized the claims as a "shakedown," maintaining that their sexual relationship had been consensual.
On July 18th, the lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice following a private settlement. The woman's attorney, Tony Buzbee, confirmed the resolution on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed.” This dismissal prevents the same claim from being refiled in court. No criminal charges were filed against Sharpe.
From Football Field to Media Icon
A three-time Super Bowl champion and four-time All-Pro, Sharpe retired in 2003 as the NFL's all-time leader among tight ends in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Since leaving football, he has become a prominent figure in sports media, initially as an analyst for CBS and later as co-host of Fox Sports 1’s "Undisputed" alongside Skip Bayless.
Following his departure from FS1 in 2023, Sharpe joined "First Take" as a twice-weekly sparring partner for Stephen A Smith. He also hosts two popular podcasts, "Club Shay Shay" and "Nightcap with Ocho," the latter alongside former NFL receiver Chad Ochocinco. Both shows are currently distributed by The Volume, although that agreement is set to expire at the end of August.
Podcast Deal Talks on Hold?
According to Front Office Sports and The Athletic, Sharpe was in discussions for a significant podcasting deal – potentially worth up to $100 million – before the lawsuit came to light. The status of those negotiations remains uncertain.