Shannon Sharpe just closed the book on a $50 million lawsuit — and he did it without ever stepping into a courtroom.
According to a statement from attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the woman accusing Sharpe of sexual assault and battery, both parties have “reached a mutually agreed upon resolution.” The case is now officially dismissed with prejudice, which means it’s done for good — no re-filing, no reruns.
The deal was struck after what Buzbee described as “protracted and respectful negotiations.” Translation: this wasn’t a heat-of-the-moment decision. The paperwork is signed, and the matter is now “closed,” per Buzbee’s words.
Sharpe has firmly denied all allegations from the beginning. When the lawsuit was filed earlier this year, he called it a “shakedown,” insisting the relationship was consensual and the accusations were flat-out false. He even made an early offer to settle the matter for around $10 million, according to Sports Illustrated.
The woman, listed as “Jane Doe” in court documents, accused Sharpe of rape, physical assault, and emotional abuse. She claimed he threatened to harm her and forced her into silence. The civil suit didn’t involve any criminal charges, but the details were disturbing and graphic — something that drew heavy media attention and public reaction.
Now, despite the high-profile claims, the lawsuit ends not with a trial, but a settlement behind closed doors.
No one’s revealing how much money changed hands, but legal insiders told NBC Sports it’s likely well over $10 million. That’s not small change — even for a Hall of Famer.
Sharpe, who’s been a staple on ESPN’s First Take alongside Stephen A. Smith, took time off from the show earlier this year after the lawsuit dropped. As of now, there’s been no official word from Sharpe or ESPN about his exact return date, but Front Office Sports reports he’s expected back before the NFL preseason kicks off.
Meanwhile, Sharpe continues to host his popular podcast Club Shay Shay, where his guests range from Snoop Dogg to Katt Williams. The YouTube numbers are still strong — and if online support is any sign, his fans haven’t turned away.