Shannon Sharpe, the former NFL Hall of Famer turned sports media personality, has officially settled a $50 million civil lawsuit that accused him of rape. The suit, filed earlier this year by a woman identified as Jane Doe, alleged multiple instances of non-consensual sexual contact during what she described as a troubled two-year relationship.

On Friday afternoon, attorney Tony Buzbee representing the plaintiff announced via Instagram that a settlement had been reached.

 “After protracted and respectful negotiations, I’m pleased to announce that we have reached a mutually agreed upon resolution,” Buzbee wrote.

 “All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed. The lawsuit will thus be dismissed with prejudice.” This means the case cannot be refiled.

Details Remain Sealed as Both Parties Move Forward

While the financial or legal terms of the agreement remain confidential, Sharpe’s legal team confirmed the settlement and stated that Buzbee’s statement should be considered the final word. According to the lawsuit, the accuser and Sharpe first met at a Los Angeles gym in 2023, when he was 54 and she was 20. Their relationship allegedly began consensually but reportedly deteriorated over time.

The civil complaint, filed on April 20 in Clark County, Nevada, included claims of assault, sexual battery, and emotional distress stemming from incidents said to have occurred in the woman’s Las Vegas apartment between October and January.

Sharpe has consistently denied all allegations. His attorney, Lanny J. Davis, previously revealed that Sharpe had offered a settlement of at least $10 million during earlier mediation attempts, which was initially rejected.

Shortly after the suit became public, Sharpe stepped away from his role on ESPN’s “First Take,” although he confirmed he’ll return for the 2025 NFL season. In the meantime, he has remained active with his hit podcasts, “Club Shay Shay” and “Nightcap.”