Shannon Sharpe, the Hall of Fame NFL player and popular podcast host, has been accused of sexual assault, harassment, and battery in a $50 million lawsuit filed by Gabriella Zuniga. According to Sharpe’s lawyer, the former athlete offered Zuniga “at least $10 million” to settle the case before the formal lawsuit was filed.
Details of the Alleged Sexual Assault Lawsuit
The lawsuit, filed on April 21, 2025, alleges that Sharpe, who played for the Denver Broncos, became controlling and abusive during his relationship with Zuniga, which reportedly began at a Los Angeles gym in 2023. The plaintiff claims that Sharpe demanded complete control over her time and body, expecting her to be available at his command whenever he called.
The documents also detail a disturbing incident where Sharpe allegedly threatened Zuniga’s life after discovering that she was sharing her location with others on her phone. Zuniga claims that Sharpe grabbed her by the neck and said, “If you ever do that again, I will f-cking kill you.”
The $10 Million Settlement Offer
In a press conference, Sharpe’s attorney, Lanny J. Davis, explained that before the lawsuit was filed, Sharpe had offered Zuniga at least $10 million in an attempt to settle the matter. Davis stated that discussions about mediation had taken place but were abruptly ended by Zuniga within the last month. According to Davis, Sharpe was “surprised” when Zuniga decided to file the lawsuit despite the settlement offer.
Allegations of Sexual Assault
Zuniga claims that the relationship turned abusive after a sex scandal involving Sharpe in September 2024, when a leaked Instagram Live video showed him with another woman. Zuniga alleges that Sharpe raped her on multiple occasions, including an alleged assault in January 2025. She says that during the incident, she was crying and sobbing, but Sharpe forced himself on her.
Audio Evidence of Alleged Threatening Call
In addition to the lawsuit, Zuniga’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, provided an audio recording of a phone call between Zuniga and Sharpe, which allegedly shows Sharpe threatening to harm her. In the call, Sharpe reportedly says, “If you say that word one more time, I’m gonna f-cking choke the sh– out of you when I see you.” Zuniga is heard protesting, but Sharpe allegedly insists, “Yes, you do. I don’t think you have a choice in the matter.”
Social Media Reactions and Public Opinion
The case has generated significant reaction on social media, with many users criticizing Sharpe, particularly in light of the $10 million settlement offer. Some questioned why Sharpe would offer such a large sum if he was innocent, while others highlighted the troubling power dynamics involved in the relationship.
One user commented, “Shannon Sharpe is a 50+ year old man. That girl was 19 when they met in 2023. Younger than his youngest kid. He’s a mess, and I don’t feel bad for him.” Another post read, “Offering her $10 million wasn’t smart, Shannon.”
Despite the growing public scrutiny, Sharpe has maintained his innocence, calling the allegations a “shakedown.” In a social media post, Sharpe vowed to defend himself in court, stating, “I’m gonna be open, transparent, and defend myself, because this isn’t right.”
Looking Ahead: Legal Battle and Court Proceedings
The legal battle between Sharpe and Zuniga is expected to intensify as both sides present their evidence in court. Sharpe has denied all allegations of misconduct and is prepared to fight the lawsuit vigorously.
