Shannon Sharpe, former NFL standout and prominent media figure, has been named in a lawsuit filed by a woman who accuses him of repeatedly sexually assaulting her. The plaintiff, identified in court records as Jane Doe, is seeking over $50 million in damages for the alleged abuse.
According to the lawsuit, the incidents occurred between late 2024 and early 2025 and followed what Doe describes as a prolonged, coercive relationship marked by emotional manipulation and control.
The two allegedly met in 2023 at a gym in Los Angeles when Doe was 20 years old and Sharpe was in his mid-50s. The complaint states that during their initial interaction, Sharpe made an inappropriate offer, saying he would pay for her breast augmentation if she succeeded in a weight-loss competition with him.
Doe claims Sharpe persistently pursued her afterward, sending numerous calls and messages, and urging her to visit him at his home in Beverly Glen. Although their relationship began on seemingly consensual terms, Doe alleges it quickly became verbally abusive and controlling.
Her attorney, Tony Buzbee, wrote in the complaint that Sharpe exerted dominance over her daily life, dictating her time and physical autonomy. One particular incident mentioned involved a heated confrontation during which Sharpe allegedly had a firearm visible. Fearing for her safety, Doe attempted to share her live location with friends, but Sharpe noticed and allegedly reacted by grabbing her neck and threatening her life.
Despite these experiences, Doe says the relationship continued, including a move with Sharpe to Nevada in the summer of 2024. She claims she attempted to end the relationship after a controversial livestream by Sharpe, which she says was a turning point. Shortly after, in October 2024, she alleges Sharpe forced himself on her at her residence while she was visibly distressed.
A second alleged incident took place in January 2025. According to Doe, Sharpe visited her under the pretense of delivering holiday and birthday gifts but instead assaulted her again.
The plaintiff is seeking substantial financial compensation for the emotional and physical trauma she says she endured.
“It takes immense bravery to confront individuals with fame, fortune, and power,” Buzbee said following the lawsuit’s filing. “We are fully prepared to pursue justice in court.”
As of now, Sharpe has not issued any public statements in response to the accusations.