Sharpe Calls Rape Allegations a “Shakedown” and Targets High-Profile Lawyer
NFL Hall of Famer and ESPN host Shannon Sharpe has responded publicly and defiantly to rape allegations made against him, vowing to sue his accuser for defamation. In a video posted to his Instagram page on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Sharpe directly addressed the claims made by a woman identified as Jane Doe, who filed a lawsuit alleging that he raped her multiple times between late 2024 and early 2025.
In his two-minute Instagram video, Sharpe took a strong stance, accusing both Doe and her high-profile attorney, Tony Buzbee, of attempting to extort him. “This is a shakedown,” Sharpe said. “I’m going to be open, transparent and defend myself, because this isn’t right.”
Sharpe’s Response: “This is all orchestrated by Tony Buzbee”
Sharpe wasted no time in calling out Buzbee by name. Thus, alleging that the attorney has a pattern of targeting prominent Black men, including Jay-Z. He claimed the situation was a coordinated effort between Buzbee and the woman he identifies as Gabby, who also goes by Carly on OnlyFans.
“Gabby and Tony Buzbee want $50 million. What they’re getting is sued for defamation and trying to take me down,” Sharpe said.
The ESPN personality also acknowledged that Buzbee had released a short audio clip to TMZ Sports earlier in the day. Buzbee described it as evidence of Sharpe using “disturbing, aggressive, and dangerous” language. Sharpe did not specifically address the content of the audio in his video, but implied that future leaks—including a potential sex tape—would be selectively edited to portray him in a negative light.
“I believe he’s going to release a 30-second clip of a sex tape that tries to make me look guilty and play into every stereotype you could possibly imagine,” Sharpe continued. “That video should actually be 10 minutes or so. Hey Tony, instead of releasing your edit, put the whole video out. I don’t have it or I would myself.”
Allegations in the Lawsuit
In the civil lawsuit, Doe claims she was in a relationship with Sharpe for nearly two years before attempting to end things over alleged infidelity. She accuses Sharpe of raping her multiple times following their breakup. Her attorney, Tony Buzbee, says the case is backed by audio evidence. Also, he said there’s potentially a video.
Buzbee has a history of representing clients in high-profile sexual misconduct cases. He released a statement Tuesday morning: “We look forward to presenting the evidence in this case through the judicial process, where the truth matters more than a sports icon’s desperate public spin.”
Public Support and Social Media Reaction
Sharpe’s Instagram post quickly garnered hundreds of thousands of views and sparked widespread conversation across social media platforms. Some fans rallied behind the former NFL star, praising him for being proactive and direct in his response.
Others, however, expressed caution, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and calling for a full investigation. The release of the short audio clip by Buzbee added fuel to the public discourse, with many commentators debating its context and implications.
Sharpe ended his video by thanking his supporters and reiterating his intent to fight the claims in court. “My career is all about real talk and honesty. I know my family and fans know exactly what this is about,” he said. “And I’m going to be out there telling you whatever I need to say, just like I always do.”
Background on Shannon Sharpe
Sharpe, 56, is a former NFL tight end and current co-host of ESPN’s sports debate show. Known for his outspoken takes and charisma, he’s become a prominent figure in the world of sports media. Over the years, he’s also built a reputation for candid commentary, both on and off the field.
Before joining ESPN, Sharpe co-hosted FS1’s “Undisputed” with Skip Bayless. He is also the host of the “Club Shay Shay” podcast, where he interviews celebrities, athletes, and cultural influencers. During his time on “Undisputed,” Sharpe ended up stealing the show.
Originally, Skip Bayless was the draw, leaving ESPN for FS1. However, his relationship with Sharpe first endeared fans. But after people noticed how Skip talked to Shannon and Shannon’s emotional reactions to it, things changed. First, “Club Shay Shay” gained popularity during the pandemic. Then, it overtook the show.
As a result of his growing popularity, Shannon Sharpe left FS1 for ESPN. Ironically, Sharpe wound up teaming up with Stephen A. Smith, Skip’s former partner. For the past two years, they’ve made quite the formidable duo.
Now, Sharpe is one of the most popular personalities in media and facing a $50 million lawsuit.
What Happens Next?
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Sharpe. The lawsuit remains a civil matter. Sharpe has indicated that he will be countersuing for defamation, which would initiate a separate legal process.
TMZ Sports has confirmed that it has been in contact with Buzbee’s office, which is expected to release more materials related to the case, including potentially more audio or video footage.
Legal proceedings in the case could take months or even years to unfold. In the meantime, public opinion will likely continue to shift with each new piece of evidence.
Final Word
Shannon Sharpe’s defiant response to the rape allegations has set the stage for a contentious legal battle. With claims of extortion, edited sex tapes, and a $50 million demand, the situation is one of the most high-profile and complex legal sagas to hit the sports media world in recent memory.
This does come after an incredible run from Shannon Sharpe. Last year, he posted the highest-viewed interview in YouTube history, with Katt Williams. Now, he is facing allegations and a lawsuit with the potential to end his career. This is quite the reversion in just one year.
As Sharpe puts it, he’s not backing down. “I’m going to be open, transparent and defend myself,” he said. “Because this isn’t right.”
The coming weeks will determine how this story evolves, but one thing is clear: Shannon Sharpe is not stepping away from the fight.
