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9h ago

Jimalita Tillman Files $20 Million Defamation Suit Against Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson

The suit accuses the hosts of reckless defamation after Tillman’s viral fan interaction following Sharpe’s settlement of a separate sexual assault claim that prompted his exit from ESPN.

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Shannon Sharpe sued for $20 million in defamation by Jimalita Tillman over Usher concert remarks. (Photo by Sean Gardner / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
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Overview

  • On July 31, 2025, Tillman filed a $20 million defamation suit against Shannon Sharpe, Chad Johnson and Shay Shay Media in Cook County court.
  • She alleges they spread a false claim that her husband filed for divorce after her viral April 2 Usher concert interaction despite her never being married.
  • The complaint states the misinformation continued even after Tillman publicly clarified her marital status and caused emotional distress and reputational damage.
  • Sharpe had just settled a separate $50 million sexual assault and rape lawsuit and was dismissed by ESPN days before the filing.
  • Neither Sharpe nor Johnson has issued a public statement and both sides’ legal teams are in contact as the case moves toward extended proceedings.