Shannon Sharpe reaches settlement in civil sexual assault lawsuit, case dismissed

Former NFL star and sports commentator Shannon Sharpe has settled the civil sexual assault lawsuit filed against him earlier this year. Attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the woman identified as “Jane Doe,” announced the resolution on Instagram Friday, stating that “after protracted and respectful negotiations,” both parties “reached a mutually agreed upon resolution.”

Details of the settlement have not been disclosed. However, Buzbee confirmed that all matters “have now been addressed satisfactorily,” and the lawsuit will be dismissed “with prejudice,” meaning the claims cannot be refiled.

The lawsuit was filed in April 2025 in Nevada and accused Sharpe of multiple instances of sexual assault and verbal abuse that allegedly occurred between late 2024 and early 2025. The woman, who said she met Sharpe at a Los Angeles gym in 2023 when she was 20, described the relationship as long-term, tumultuous, and abusive.

As the legal proceedings unfolded, Buzbee released an audio clip in which a man, believed to be Sharpe, appeared to issue violent threats. Sharpe denied all allegations, calling the lawsuit a “shakedown” and stating his intent to countersue for defamation. “I know my family and fans know exactly what this is about,” Sharpe said on April 30. “I love all you guys. Thanks.”

While Sharpe has remained active with his Nightcap podcast alongside Chad Ochocinco, his legal team has not publicly commented on the resolution. No additional details regarding financial terms or further legal actions have surfaced.

The resolution comes amid continued public curiosity and speculation, although both parties have remained largely silent beyond official statements. With the case now closed, attention turns to whether Sharpe will address the matter further or allow it to remain confined to legal channels.