NFL star Shannon Sharpe dropped by ESPN after settling sexual assault case

July 31, 2025

Former NFL star and popular podcaster Shannon Sharpe has been dropped by ESPN following the settlement of a rape lawsuit against him. The lawsuit, filed by a woman alleging assault during their nearly two-year relationship, sought over $50 million in damages but was recently dismissed after both parties reached a settlement with undisclosed terms. Sharpe, who denied the allegations and called them a "shakedown," confirmed on his podcast that he would not be returning to ESPN after learning of the network's decision earlier in the week.

Who is affected

Shannon Sharpe (former NFL player, podcaster, and ESPN personality)
ESPN (sports network)
The anonymous woman who filed the lawsuit
Sterling Sharpe (Shannon's brother whose Hall of Fame induction might be overshadowed)
Fans and viewers of Sharpe's ESPN appearances and podcasts

What action is being taken

ESPN is dropping Shannon Sharpe from their network
Sharpe is continuing to produce his podcasts (Nightcap and Club Shay Shay)
Sharpe is acknowledging the situation publicly on his podcast

Why it matters

The case involves serious allegations of sexual assault against a prominent sports personality
It affects Sharpe's media career and professional reputation
The timing coincides with Sterling Sharpe's upcoming Hall of Fame induction
It represents another high-profile case handled by attorney Tony Buzbee, who has represented clients against other celebrities
The case involves a significant age gap between Sharpe and his accuser (she was 19 when they met in 2023)

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC