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ESPN parts ways with Shannon Sharpe after lawsuit settlement

Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN following a settlement of a sexual assault lawsuit.

July 31, 2025 at 02:22 AM

ESPN cuts ties with Shannon Sharpe after settlement of sexual assault lawsuit: Report

Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN after settling a sexual assault lawsuit.

ESPN ends partnership with Shannon Sharpe following lawsuit settlement

Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN, as confirmed by The Athletic on Wednesday. This announcement follows his settlement of a sexual assault lawsuit initiated by a former partner, who accused him of sexual misconduct. The 57-year-old Sharpe, who signed a multi-year contract with ESPN in 2024, has not been seen on air since April, when the lawsuit was filed. At that time, he labeled the lawsuit a 'shakedown' and stated his relationship with the plaintiff was consensual. The lawsuit was ultimately dismissed with prejudice, preventing the accuser from re-filing in the same court. While Sharpe may be gone from ESPN, he remains active in podcasting and is reportedly pursuing significant podcast opportunities.

Key Takeaways

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Shannon Sharpe will not return to ESPN after settling a lawsuit.

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The lawsuit stemmed from allegations of sexual assault by a former partner.

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Sharpe described the lawsuit as a 'shakedown' and emphasized consensual relations.

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After the lawsuit was settled, it was dismissed with prejudice.

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Sharpe's absence from ESPN began shortly after the lawsuit was filed in April.

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Despite this setback, Sharpe is reportedly pursuing podcast opportunities.

"After protracted and respectful negotiations, we've reached a mutually agreed upon resolution."

Lawyer Tony Buzbee confirms the resolution of Sharpe's lawsuit.

"I will be devoting this time to my family and responding to these disruptive allegations."

Sharpe explains his temporary absence from ESPN during the lawsuit.

The departure of Shannon Sharpe from ESPN marks a significant chapter in sports media, reflecting the ongoing impacts of allegations of misconduct and the ensuing legal battles. As lawsuits against public figures become more common, networks may feel the pressure to distance themselves from controversy. This situation could influence how other media personalities navigate their public and professional lives. With Sharpe's potential $100 million podcast deal looming, he may find new avenues for his career even outside traditional broadcasting.

Highlights

Sharpe's departure raises questions about media accountability.
Settled cases may impact how networks handle public allegations.
A $100 million podcast deal could redefine Sharpe's career.
Can Sharpe bounce back in the podcasting world after ESPN?

Concerns over reputational risk and public backlash

Shannon Sharpe's departure from ESPN follows sensitive allegations and a lawsuit settlement, raising concerns about reputational damage for both Sharpe and the network.

Sharpe's next moves will be closely watched as he navigates the aftermath.

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