In a dramatic turn of events, NFL Hall of Famer and popular sports commentator Shannon Sharpe has been dismissed from his role on ESPN's flagship debate show, First Take. This development comes shortly after Sharpe settled a high-profile lawsuit filed against him by a 20-year-old former model, who had accused him of sexual assault and sought $50 million in damages.
Backlash Intensifies as Old Interview Resurfaces
As news of his firing spread, public sentiment towards Sharpe shifted further when a past conversation from his own Club Shay Shay podcast resurfaced online. The interview featured comedian Mo'Nique, who had bluntly advised Sharpe against pursuing relationships with much younger women.
During their chat, Mo'Nique told him, “You don't need no 26-year-old girl; you don't need no 36-year-old girl…You’re trying to hang out with these young b-tches. You can’t do it, Shannon!” Fans are now highlighting this clip, suggesting he ignored clear warnings.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Chaos
The resurfaced clip has sparked a storm on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Fans are brutally trolling Sharpe, connecting his current predicament directly to his lifestyle choices.
One user, @AlwaysKnocking, commented, “Shannon sees this interview in his nightmares.” Another, @954mari, pointed to the financial cost, writing, “not listening to this simple advice prolly cost him 60m+ in net worth.”
The criticism went deeper, with user @Miss_Thiqueness noting, “At least three of Shannon Sharpe’s guests tried to tell him to stop taking advantage of young women. It’s craaazy how he didn’t listen. He is not a victim.” User @RobynDMarley_ added, “I don’t feel bad for Shannon Sharpe one bit. He spent his entire career talking down on black women... C0on!ng? comes at a price and now his money is low and his name is forever tarnished.”
Sharpe Breaks Silence on ESPN Exit, Not Lawsuit
While Shannon Sharpe has not publicly addressed the criticism regarding the lawsuit or the resurfaced interview, he has spoken about his departure from ESPN. On his podcast Nightcap, Sharpe revealed his request to delay the news.
“The only thing that I really asked is, ‘Guys, could we wait until Monday? My brother’s going into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I really want it to be about him and I want it to be about my family,'” Sharpe stated, expressing his disappointment with the timing.
What's Next for the NFL Legend?
Currently, Shannon Sharpe's professional life is centered around his podcasts. His exit from ESPN marks a significant setback for the former tight end, whose candid commentary had made him a staple on sports television. The settlement of the $50 million lawsuit with the young model and the subsequent firing have undoubtedly impacted his public image and career trajectory.
As of now, Sharpe has not announced his next career move. The sports world watches to see if he can navigate this crisis and rebuild his reputation after these serious legal and professional blows.
