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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Kevin E G Perry

Shannon Sharpe takes leave from ESPN’s First Take after being accused of rape in $50m lawsuit

Shannon Sharpe has announced he is temporarily stepping away from his work on ESPN after being accused of rape in a $50 million lawsuit by a woman using the pseudonym “Jane Doe,” alleging a litany of offenses including sexual battery and assault.

The 56-year-old NFL Hall of Famer made the statement on social media by posting a screenshot of a text message. The former Denver Broncos tight end said he needs time away from his work to fight allegations that he called "false and disruptive."

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