In a recent turn of events, comedian and actress Mo'Nique has broken her silence regarding the sexual assault allegations against her longtime friend and NFL Hall of Famer, Shannon Sharpe. This development comes months after Sharpe was accused by a 20-year-old former model and subsequently reached a substantial financial settlement.
Mo'Nique's Public Support for "Brother" Shannon Sharpe
During a live Instagram session with her fans, Mo'Nique was directly questioned about the scandal involving Shannon Sharpe. The popular comedian did not hesitate to voice her unwavering support. "Everyone keeps asking me how I feel about Shannon Sharpe. That’s my brother and I love him. That’s how I feel. That’s it…" she stated emphatically.
Mo'Nique further elaborated by invoking a theme of human fallibility and redemption. "We've all not walked the perfect line, we've all had mistakes, we've all taken a fall, we've all had to get up and get to going again," she remarked. She concluded her thoughts by reaffirming, "So, that is my brother, and I love my brother." This public stance marks a notable shift from her previous advice to Sharpe on his podcast, where she had cautioned him against dating younger women.
The Legal Scandal and Sharpe's Defense
The controversy began in April 2025, when a 20-year-old former model accused Shannon Sharpe of sexual assault. The NFL legend vehemently denied the allegations from the outset. Sharpe issued statements describing his relationship with the woman as "consensual" and disclosed that their interactions involved "BDSM and role playing."
These revelations sparked significant backlash online, with many critics highlighting the more than thirty-year age gap between Sharpe and his accuser. Fans also pointed out that Sharpe's own children are older than the woman who filed the lawsuit. Despite maintaining his innocence, reports indicate Sharpe paid a staggering $23 million to settle the lawsuit with the former model.
Controversial Timing and Public Reaction
Mo'Nique's vocal support arrives at a sensitive time when Shannon Sharpe has attempted to distance himself publicly from the legal mess. While he continues to assert his innocence, the settlement has raised questions and divided public opinion. The comedian's decision to stand by her friend, focusing on loyalty over the allegations, is seen as controversial by many observers.
As of now, Shannon Sharpe has not publicly responded to Mo'Nique's show of support. The situation remains a focal point of discussion, intertwining issues of celebrity, friendship, legal accountability, and the complex court of public opinion.
