Shannon Sharpe has been caught in a whirlwind of headlines as of late due to claims that have been leveled against him. The 56-year-old former tight end is being sued for $50 million by a Jane Doe who’s accused him of raping her multiple times and threatening her.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Former NFL star Shannon Sharpe said Thursday he is temporarily stepping away from his ESPN duties while he deals with what he called false allegations in a $50 million civil lawsuit filed against him by a woman who alleges he raped and threatened her.

A statement from Sharpe's lawyer said the relationship was consensual and called the lawsuit a "blatant and cynical attempt to shake down" Sharpe for millions of dollars.