LOS ANGELES (BN24) — Shannon Sharpe, former NFL Hall of Famer and popular sports broadcaster, has reportedly been terminated by ESPN just weeks after settling a high-profile $50 million sexual assault lawsuit filed by an ex-girlfriend, according to The Athletic.
Sharpe, who had been off the air since April with plans to return for the football season, has not made any official appearances on ESPN platforms since his leave. The network has not publicly confirmed the terms of his departure, but multiple sources close to the situation have indicated his dismissal followed the out-of-court resolution of the civil case.
The lawsuit, filed in Clark County, Nevada, accused Sharpe of sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The complaint alleged that Sharpe engaged in multiple nonconsensual sexual acts with the plaintiff at her Las Vegas residence between 2024 and 2025. The plaintiff sought $50 million in damages.
Sharpe has consistently denied the allegations, describing the lawsuit as a “shakedown” and asserting that the relationship was entirely consensual. His legal team previously indicated their intention to fight the claims vigorously before the settlement was reached. Details of the agreement remain confidential.
This incident adds to a recent series of public controversies involving Sharpe. In late 2024, he mistakenly livestreamed audio of himself engaged in a sexual act via Instagram, which quickly went viral and led to widespread media scrutiny.
Despite the off-field issues, Sharpe remains a towering figure in the sports world. He played 14 seasons in the NFL, 12 of them with the Denver Broncos, where he won two Super Bowl championships and became one of the most decorated tight ends in league history. Since retiring in 2003, Sharpe transitioned into media, gaining recognition for his outspoken commentary and sharp analysis across several national platforms.
Sharpe’s firing marks a dramatic turn in the career of one of football’s most recognizable voices. Neither ESPN nor Sharpe has released an official statement regarding the termination as of this report.
