Shannon Sharpe sexual assault allegations addressed by Stephen A. Smith
Stephen A. Smith has broken his silence following the sexual assault allegations against his "First Take" co-host Shannon Sharpe, calling it a 'sad situation' while stating that Sharpe maintains his innocence.
Sharpe, a former NFL star and ESPN personality, is facing a $50 million civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault, battery, and emotional distress.
The plaintiff, represented by attorney Tony Buzbee, has accused Sharpe of rape and manipulation, citing incidents of recorded sexual activity and threats of violence.
Sharpe has denied all allegations, calling the case a 'shakedown.' His legal team released sexually explicit messages allegedly sent by the woman to support his claim that the relationship was consensual.
Attorney Lanny J. Davis stated the messages indicate the nature of the relationship was initiated and maintained by the plaintiff.
Smith addressed the case on his podcast, stating he had spoken with Sharpe, who 'emphatically proclaims his innocence.' He expressed concern over Sharpe's legal strategy of publicly sharing explicit details, suggesting it may not help his defence.
'It was uncomfortable,' Smith said, adding, 'I don't know if that's a strategy that would work.'
Smith emphasised that ESPN and Disney are taking the matter seriously. After discussions with ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro, Smith confirmed that the network is 'looking into this very, very closely.'
Buzbee, known for representing clients in high-profile cases, has previously represented accusers of Deshaun Watson, Jay-Z, and Sean 'Diddy' Combs. He claims the video evidence in Sharpe's case 'speaks volumes about Mr. Sharpe and his behaviour.'
Sharpe had previously revealed the accuser as Gabriella Zuninga.
Despite the allegations, Sharpe remains a guest host on ESPN's "First Take." Smith said he is 'hopeful and prayerful' the claims are untrue, but acknowledged that only time will reveal the truth.
'In my perfect world, this is a sad ordeal that goes away because there was no truth to it,' he said. 'But I don't know. Neither do you. Only time will tell.'
The lawsuit accuses Sharpe of refusing to accept consent boundaries and alleges a pattern of manipulation and coercion. Sharpe's attorneys admitted a prior $10 million settlement offer was rejected by the woman.
As of now, ESPN has made no official statement regarding Sharpe's future with the network.
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