Shannon Sharpe's sexual assault lawsuit spirals into courtroom chaos after accuser appears without lawyer
Shannon Sharpe's first court appearance in a $50 million civil sexual assault lawsuit took a dramatic turn this week, as confusion engulfed a Clark County courtroom when the accuser, Gabriella Zuniga, arrived without her attorney.
The highly publicized case, already fueled by media scrutiny and social media speculation, veered off course as celebrity lawyer Tony Buzbee—best known for high-stakes battles involving Deshaun Watson and Jay-Z—failed to appear, leaving the courtroom stunned.
A courtroom twist: plaintiff shows up alone, judge 'disappointed'
Judge Anna Albertson didn't mince words, expressing 'disappointment' over Buzbee's absence. Zuniga's lack of legal representation, despite Buzbee being formally attached to the case, raised questions about the plaintiff's preparedness and her legal team's commitment.
Buzbee, meanwhile, was reportedly active on social media that week, making the situation even more puzzling.
Sharpe, flanked by attorney Robert DeMarco, seized the moment. His team requested and was granted a 45-day extension to assess the unexpected development, marking what some are calling an early procedural win for the former NFL star.
Shannon Sharpe hits back: denies allegations, calls it a "money grab"
While Sharpe has yet to formally respond in court, he has been aggressive in the court of public opinion.
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Denying the allegations outright, Sharpe called the case a calculated 'money grab,' allegedly engineered by Buzbee's legal tactics.
Adding to the controversy, Sharpe's legal team claims a $10 million settlement offer was extended before the lawsuit was filed—framing it as an effort to avoid long-drawn litigation rather than any admission of guilt.
Sharpe's camp also released private messages and audio recordings to support his claim that the relationship with Zuniga was consensual.
One controversial recording in which he appears to threaten Zuniga was downplayed as 'part of a role-playing dynamic,' not a sign of abuse.
Buzbee, for his part, has criticized Sharpe's strategy, particularly the public disclosure of Zuniga's identity and private exchanges. He argues that turning down a settlement offer does not weaken the strength of Zuniga's claims.
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Tom Brady accused of using Sofia Vergara for clout as insiders label romance a shallow summer stunt
As legal tensions rise, Sharpe has stepped back from ESPN but remains active on his Club Shay Shay and Nightcap podcasts. With another court date looming, the chaos surrounding this case is just getting started—and both sides appear ready for a long legal battle.
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