ESPN Personality Let Go After Explosive $50M Sexual Assault Settlement
Shannon Sharpe has long been a recognizable voice in the world of sports commentary. Known for his candid takes and commanding presence, the former NFL tight end made a successful leap from the football field to television, winning over audiences on shows like CBS’s The NFL Today and, more recently, ESPN’s First Take. But the sports media landscape has changed quickly for Sharpe, and a once-thriving career now faces a significant reckoning.
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Fans of First Take noticed earlier this year that Sharpe had stopped appearing regularly on the show. At the time, no official explanation was given. However, behind the scenes, serious allegations were making headlines in the legal world, and they would ultimately have major consequences for both the broadcaster and the network that employed him.
In April 2025, a civil lawsuit was filed against Sharpe by OnlyFans model Gabriella Zuniga. The complaint accused Sharpe of “assault, sexual assault, battery, and sexual battery” and included claims of “intentional infliction of emotional distress.” Zuniga sought over $50 million in damages.
Sharpe denied the accusations, referring to the case as a “shakedown” attempt and claiming Zuniga was only interested in a payout. Sharpe’s attorneys later confirmed that he had tried to reach a $10 million settlement.
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The situation escalated when a leaked audio recording surfaced, allegedly capturing Sharpe threatening Zuniga if she continued to accuse him of rape. Although no criminal charges were filed, public pressure began mounting, and Sharpe’s future at ESPN was thrown into question.
Now, that question has been answered. ESPN has officially cut ties with the former NFL star following a settlement in the civil lawsuit.
Former NFL star and media analyst Shannon Sharpe will no longer appear on ESPN, TheWrap has learned, just a few weeks after settling a $50 million lawsuit, in which his ex-girlfriend accused him of rape.
Following the $50 million settlement July 19, a lawyer representing his ex said in a statement that ‘both sides acknowledge a long-term consensual and tumultuous relationship.’ No criminal charges were filed against Sharpe after his payout.
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Sharpe’s departure from ESPN is not only making waves in the sports world, but it’s also causing tension within his family. Sharpe had reportedly hoped that news of his firing would not be made public until after August 4, following the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction of his brother, Sterling Sharpe, on August 2. Instead, the announcement broke early and may now overshadow a milestone moment for the Sharpe family.
Sharpe had joined First Take in August 2023 and quickly became a fan-favorite, known for his fiery debates and chemistry with host Stephen A. Smith. His popularity even earned him a contract extension in 2024, solidifying his role on the show. Just a year later, everything has changed.
ESPN, which is owned by The Walt Disney Company, has not released a public comment regarding the firing. Disney itself has also remained silent amid the fallout.
This development comes during a time when Disney and its subsidiaries are facing mounting scrutiny related to workplace conduct and accountability. Earlier this year, other lawsuits targeting Disney-owned networks also surfaced, involving claims of harassment and misconduct.
Do you think ESPN should have acted sooner? Should Disney have responded more publicly? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.
