New to Pano? Start here

Apr 21st, 2025, 3:39 PM ET·Entertainment

Former NFL Star Shannon Sharpe Denies $50 Million Sexual Assault Allegations

Shannon Sharpe, facing a lawsuit for sexual assault, insists the relationship with the plaintiff was consensual and labels the claims as attempted extortion.


Last Update: 10:27 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Shannon Sharpe is facing a $50 million sexual assault lawsuit from a woman identified as Jane Doe, who claims he abused her during their nearly two-year relationship. The suit alleges Sharpe assaulted her in October 2024 and January 2025, and details instances of emotional and physical abuse. Sharpe, through his attorney, has denied the allegations, asserting the relationship was consensual and claiming the lawsuit is an attempt to extort money from him. He shared explicit messages purportedly from the plaintiff to support his claim. No criminal charges have been filed, and the case is currently a civil suit.

Sources (10)

Compare coverage of this story from news outlets across the political spectrum.
  • The Guardian
  • Rolling Stone
  • The allegations against Shannon Sharpe involve severe forms of sexual assault, including instances of anally raping the plaintiff despite her clear objections.
  • Evidence of emotional manipulation and violent control over the plaintiff has been presented, indicating a pattern of abusive behavior by Sharpe in their relationship.
  • Legal representation for the plaintiff has experience handling high-profile sexual assault cases, indicating the serious nature of the legal claim against Sharpe.

FAQ

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.

History

A summary of how this story has evolved over the last 24 hours.

  • 1M
Former NFL Star Shannon Sharpe Denies $50 Million Sexual Assault Allegations - Pano News