Network reportedly finalizes Shannon Sharpe's position with ESPN following his resolution of the sexual assault lawsuit he faced
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In a significant turn of events, Shannon Sharpe has parted ways with ESPN following the network's decision to cut ties with him in late July 2025. This action was prompted by a $50-million lawsuit that accused Sharpe of rape, which he vehemently denied, calling it a "shakedown."
Before the legal issue arose, Sharpe was on the verge of landing a potentially lucrative podcasting deal worth $100 million[3]. However, the lawsuit filed in Clark County, Nevada, put a halt to these plans. The lawsuit claimed "pain and suffering, psychological and emotional distress, mental anguish, embarrassment, and humiliation."
Sharpe temporarily stepped away from his duties at ESPN's "First Take" after the lawsuit was filed, but he was initially expected to return for the 2025 NFL season. However, it seems that the legal situation has proven to be too much for the network to handle, and they have decided not to bring him back[4].
Despite his departure from ESPN, Sharpe continues to host his own podcasts, "Club Shay Shay" and "Nightcap," alongside Chad Ochocinco[1]. It remains unclear whether he will address the topic on his podcasts.
The Athletic reported that ESPN has dropped Sharpe from the company[5]. However, the network has yet to release an official statement regarding the decision.
Sharpe's tenure at ESPN was not without controversy. In 2023, he walked off set after just 45 seconds on air due to comments made by co-host Skip Bayless[6]. He also went off on fellow employees who criticized his coverage of Ohio State's football program.
Interestingly, Sharpe accidentally called Stephen A. Smith "Skip" on ESPN's "First Take," a mistake that may have seemed trivial compared to the more serious issues he faced[7].
Before joining "First Take," Sharpe began his career at ESPN as a recurring panelist after leaving "Undisputed." His legal troubles began in April 2023, and he formally exited FS1's "Skip and Shannon: Undisputed" in the fall of 2023[8].
[1] The Athletic [2] Variety [3] Forbes [4] ESPN [5] The Athletic [6] Sports Illustrated [7] CBS Sports [8] Deadline
- Amidst the ongoing legal battle, Shannon Sharpe's personal podcasts, "Club Shay Shay" and "Nightcap," provide a daily blend of entertainment, general-news, and perhaps, discussions revolving around crime-and-justice.
- With his departure from ESPN, sports enthusiasts might least expect to catch Shannon Sharpe discussing current sports events due to his involvement in a high-profile lawsuit, but they can still catch him on his personal podcasts.
