Shannon Sharpe Exits ESPN Weeks After Sexual Assault Lawsuit Settlement

Shannon Sharpe, former NFL star and co-host of ESPN’s First Take, has reportedly been let go from the network just weeks after settling a high-profile sexual assault lawsuit.

The development, first reported by The Atlantic on Wednesday, 30 July, has stirred fresh debate online as the timing coincides with his accuser’s sudden announcement of retirement from adult content platform, OnlyFans.

Sharpe had been a regular face on ESPN programming until April, when allegations of sexual assault and unlawful video recording were filed against him by Gabriella Zuniga, an ex-girlfriend and social media personality.

Zuniga sought $50 million in damages, claiming the former tight end raped her and filmed her without consent. The case was settled on Friday for undisclosed terms.

Though details of the settlement remain private, Zuniga has since deleted her original claims from social media and announced, in a now-deleted post, her departure from OnlyFans.

“I’ve decided to retire,” she wrote. “Thank you for the incredible support you’ve shown me over the past few years. This community has given me a life I could have never imagined.”

She added that she plans to remain active on social media and teased new projects.

The timing of her retirement, coming just hours after the lawsuit was settled, has fuelled widespread speculation online. On TikTok, influencer @TheKempire quipped, “The timeliness of this retirement is not lost on me,” as users across platforms questioned whether Zuniga’s departure signified a financial windfall.

Another creator, @Po.lette, remarked: “Lady taken care of and is set for life,” while also critiquing male public figures for “inability to control their urges.”

Social media reactions have been mixed. Some applauded Zuniga’s perceived victory, with comments like “checkmate” and “retired herself on his dime.” Others viewed it with suspicion or frustration. On X (formerly Twitter), @Stevozone4_ wrote, “I’ve never seen a retirement announcement immediately after a settlement before,” suggesting the optics were jarring.

Lawyer Tony Buzbee, who represented Zuniga, confirmed in a statement on Friday that “both sides acknowledge a long-term consensual and tumultuous relationship,” adding that the matter has been “resolved satisfactorily.”

Sharpe, who gained a cult following for his sharp commentary and viral podcast Club Shay Shay, has not commented publicly on his exit from ESPN. The network has also yet to release an official statement regarding his departure.