Shannon Sharpe Leaves ESPN After Lawsuit Settlement

ESPN has officially parted ways with Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe following the confidential settlement of a $50 million civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault by a former romantic partner, which Sharpe denied and for which no criminal charges were filed. Sharpe had been off the air since April 2025, after the lawsuit's filing, and originally planned to return for the NFL season. Sharpe publicly expressed disappointment that ESPN’s announcement coincided with his brother Sterling Sharpe’s Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, a milestone he hoped would remain the family's focus. On his podcast, Sharpe stated he is 'at peace' with ESPN's decision and thanked the network for his tenure. Sterling Sharpe has publicly supported his brother during this period, and the news has prompted discussions about media scrutiny and the family’s legacy. Sharpe will continue his work on the podcasts 'Club Shay Shay' and 'Nightcap.'