Shannon Sharpe Departs ESPN After Lawsuit Settlement

Shannon Sharpe, NFL Hall of Famer and sports media personality, has parted ways with ESPN following the confidential settlement of a $50 million sexual assault lawsuit filed by his ex-girlfriend. Sharpe, who joined ESPN's 'First Take' in 2023, had taken a leave of absence in April after the allegations surfaced. Both Sharpe and ESPN have declined to comment on the circumstances of his departure. The lawsuit was settled for undisclosed terms and dismissed with prejudice, with legal representatives confirming a mutually satisfactory resolution. Social media speculation intensified after the accuser announced her retirement from OnlyFans soon after the settlement. Sharpe continues to host his popular podcasts and is reportedly close to finalizing a major podcast deal.