Overview

• Shannon Sharpe announced he is temporarily stepping away from his ESPN duties to address a $50 million civil lawsuit filed by a woman alleging rape and sexual assault.
• Sharpe maintains the relationship was entirely consensual and has labeled the lawsuit a 'shakedown,' accusing the plaintiff's attorney, Tony Buzbee, of targeting him.
• The lawsuit alleges two incidents of nonconsensual sexual acts in October 2024 and January 2025, as well as threats and controlling behavior during their two-year relationship.
• Sharpe's legal team has released explicit text messages they claim demonstrate the relationship was consensual and included role-playing and fantasy scenarios initiated by the plaintiff.
• ESPN has supported Sharpe's decision to step away, calling the situation serious and stating it will review his status as more facts emerge.