Actress and comedian Mo’Nique spoke out this week following news that Shannon Sharpe, the Pro Football Hall of Famer, settled a sexual assault lawsuit. Her remarks offered support and a plea for empathy.
Sharpe reached a settlement in a lawsuit filed earlier this year by a woman identified in court filings as “Jane Doe.” The woman alleged rape, non-consensual recording, emotional abuse, and manipulation during their relationship. The suit sought $50 million. Sharpe denied the accusations, calling the claim an attempt at blackmail and saying their relationship was consensual.
On July 18, both parties reached a resolution. Attorney Tony Buzbee said, “All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed,” adding that the case was dismissed with prejudice. Details of the settlement remain confidential. Reports suggest the settlement exceeded $10 million but was lower than the original demand.
Following the settlement, ESPN ended its association with Sharpe. The network opted not to renew his contract, ending his role on First Take.
Mo’Nique, a longtime figure in stand-up and film, broke her silence via social media. She said, “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 added, “That is my brother and I love my brother.” She referred to Sharpe affectionately as “Shay Shay, baby.” She also told critics, “Whatever you feeling about my brother, if you ain’t got something nice to say, be quiet.”
Mo’Nique’s remarks drew attention to a 2024 exchange on Sharpe’s podcast, Club Shay Shay. At the time, she warned him against dating younger women. “He need him an old fat gal … you don’t need no 26-year-old girl,” she advised.
Sharpe continues to host his podcasts, Club Shay Shay and Nightcap, even as his ESPN career came to an end.