By: Kamara Daughtry (@kamaradaughtry)
NFL Hall of Famer and sports media personality Shannon Sharpe is officially no longer with ESPN. This news comes just weeks after he settled a $50 million civil lawsuit filed by a woman who accused him of non-consensual conduct—allegations Sharpe has firmly denied.
Background
According to The Athletic and confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter, Sharpe will not be returning to his role on ESPN’s First Take, where he had become a fan-favorite contributor alongside Stephen A. Smith. He had previously stepped away from the show earlier in 2025 after the lawsuit was filed, reportedly planning to return in time for the NFL season.
As reported by The Guardian (July 30, 2025), the lawsuit was originally filed in Clark County, Nevada, in April. The plaintiff sought $50 million in damages, alleging emotional distress and misconduct. Sharpe denied the claims from the outset, stating the relationship in question was “100% consensual.”
Lawsuit Settlement and Dismissal
On July 18, 2025, the lawsuit was settled privately and dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. No criminal charges were filed in connection with the allegations. According to reporting from People Magazine and ABC News, the settlement was reached without Sharpe admitting any wrongdoing.
ESPN’s Response
While ESPN has not issued a formal statement, sources told The Hollywood Reporter that Sharpe will not be returning to the network. His departure appears to be permanent and was first reported by The Athletic.
This marks another high-profile shift in Sharpe’s media career. He previously departed FS1’s Undisputed in June 2023, later joining ESPN’s First Take in September 2023.
What’s Next for Shannon Sharpe?
Sharpe continues to host two successful shows: Club Shay Shay, which has featured viral interviews and celebrity guests, and Nightcap with Ocho, co-hosted with Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson. According to Wikipedia and various outlets, his distribution deal with The Volume Media is expected to conclude at the end of August 2025.
Legal Considerations
This article avoids using explicit or unverified language regarding the claims, in line with responsible media reporting. The matter was civil—not criminal—and resolved through settlement without any admission of guilt or finding of liability.
Cited Sources:
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The Guardian – “Shannon Sharpe reportedly out at ESPN after settlement of lawsuit”
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The Athletic (via The Hollywood Reporter) – Confirmation of ESPN departure
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People Magazine – “Shannon Sharpe Cut from ESPN After $50M Lawsuit Settlement”
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ABC News – “ESPN Cuts Ties with Shannon Sharpe Following Lawsuit Settlement”
