Identity of Shannon Sharpe’s Accuser Revealed Amid $50 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit

The woman who filed a $50 million civil lawsuit against NFL Hall of Famer and ESPN personality Shannon Sharpe has been identified as Gabriella “Gabbi” Zuniga, a 20-year-old social media personality. Previously referred to as “Jane Doe” in legal filings, Zuniga alleges that Sharpe, 56, sexually assaulted her multiple times during their nearly two-year relationship, which began when she was 18.

According to court documents filed in Clark County, Nevada, Zuniga claims that Sharpe became increasingly controlling and abusive over time, including instances of physical force and emotional distress. She alleges that Sharpe raped her in October 2024 and again in January 2025, and that he recorded their sexual encounters without her consent. 

Sharpe has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as “viciously false” and asserting that their encounters were consensual and included role-playing scenarios. His attorney, Lanny Davis, stated that Sharpe had offered Zuniga $10 million during mediation to settle the matter privately, but the offer was rejected. 

The lawsuit has garnered significant public attention, especially after the release of a 1-minute and 36-second audio clip by Zuniga’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, in which a voice alleged to be Sharpe’s is heard making threatening remarks. Sharpe’s legal team contends that the audio is taken out of context and is part of consensual role-play. 

Sharpe has publicly addressed the lawsuit, calling it a “shakedown” and accusing Buzbee of targeting Black men, citing similar lawsuits involving other high-profile figures. 

As the case unfolds, both parties are preparing for a legal battle that is expected to draw continued media scrutiny.