Former NFL star and sports commentator Shannon Sharpe has settled a $23 million sexual assault lawsuit filed by model and influencer Gabriella Zuniga. 

The high-profile case, which accused Sharpe of sexual misconduct and emotional abuse, was quietly resolved in July 2025, with the lawsuit dismissed with prejudice, ending further legal action. Neither party has officially confirmed the settlement amount, though $23 million has become the widely reported figure on social media.

The allegations brought by Zuniga initially sparked intense public scrutiny and backlash online, especially as the lawsuit coincided with Sharpe negotiating a lucrative podcast deal. Sharpe has consistently denied the accusations, describing the relationship as consensual and criticizing the lawsuit as a blackmail attempt. Despite his denial, the settlement has fueled a widespread internet roast, with fans mocking the sports personality for allegedly paying such a large sum.

Following the settlement, Zuniga announced her retirement from OnlyFans, suggesting the agreement provided her with financial security to step away from the platform. While Sharpe’s legal team sought to keep details confidential, the case has become a cautionary example of the complex dynamics celebrity figures face in the social media age, blending issues of privacy, reputation, and public perception in high-stakes legal battles.