ESPN Parts Ways With Shannon Sharpe After Lawsuit

In a move that ends months of speculation, ESPN has cut ties with Shannon Sharpe following the settlement of a sexual assault lawsuit filed earlier this year. The former NFL star and media analyst had been off-air since April, when the allegations were first made public by a former romantic partner.

Lawsuit Led to Hiatus

Sharpe, 57, had signed a multi-year deal with ESPN in 2024 and quickly became one of the most visible figures on the network’s NFL coverage. However, he voluntarily stepped away from his on-air duties after a lawsuit accused him of sexual assault and battery. The plaintiff, who used the pseudonym “Jane Doe,” claimed that the incidents caused her emotional trauma and sought $50 million in damages.

At the time, Sharpe publicly denied the allegations, calling them a “shakedown” and asserting that the relationship had been “100% consensual.” He also criticized the plaintiff’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, accusing him of targeting Black men.

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ESPN Ends Contract Quietly

While ESPN did not release a formal statement, The Athletic confirmed on July 30 that the network had officially ended its relationship with Sharpe. The decision came just days after news broke that the lawsuit had been settled out of court.

Though no financial details were disclosed, Buzbee announced the agreement on July 18 via X (formerly Twitter), stating, “After protracted and respectful negotiations, I’m pleased to announce that we have reached a mutually agreed upon resolution. All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed.”

The lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled.

Sharpe Confirms Departure

Sharpe briefly addressed the matter on Wednesday night, acknowledging that his time at ESPN had ended. However, he asked the public to wait until Monday before discussing the issue further.

Training camps across the NFL began earlier this month, and the first preseason game kicks off Thursday night in Canton, Ohio. Sharpe was originally scheduled to return to ESPN ahead of preseason coverage. That plan now appears permanently shelved.

A High-Profile Exit

Sharpe’s sudden departure marks the end of a high-profile but short-lived stint with ESPN. Known for his bold commentary and larger-than-life personality, he was a key addition to the network’s NFL analysis team. His appearances on First Take with Stephen A. Smith drew strong ratings and social media engagement.

Still, the off-field controversy proved too great a distraction for the network. Sharpe’s last on-air appearance was before the lawsuit surfaced, and his leave of absence quickly evolved into an indefinite break.

Public Reaction Divided

The case sparked a mix of reactions online. Some defended Sharpe, citing the lack of criminal charges and emphasizing his statement that the relationship was consensual. Others pointed to the gravity of the allegations and called on ESPN to uphold accountability.

Women’s rights advocates emphasized the importance of taking such accusations seriously, particularly when they involve high-profile public figures. Legal experts noted that while settlements do not imply guilt, they often reflect a mutual interest in avoiding prolonged litigation and public scrutiny.

What Comes Next

Sharpe’s future in broadcasting remains uncertain. Despite the controversy, he still holds a loyal fanbase and a strong personal brand. Some media insiders suggest he could return through independent platforms, such as podcasting or digital media, where he has already built a following.

Whether Sharpe will pursue new broadcasting deals or take an extended break remains unclear. His full statement on the matter, expected Monday, may offer more insight into his next steps.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s decision signals a firm stance on reputational risk amid growing public sensitivity to issues of workplace conduct and sexual misconduct allegations. As more public figures face scrutiny over their behavior, networks are under increased pressure to respond swiftly and decisively.