In a significant legal development, a judge has dismissed the defamation lawsuit filed by former NFL quarterback Brett Favre against Hall of Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe. The lawsuit was dismissed on Monday, with the judge ruling that Sharpe’s comments are protected under the U.S. Constitution.
Key Takeaway
A judge has dismissed Brett Favre’s defamation lawsuit against Shannon Sharpe, ruling that Sharpe’s comments are protected under the U.S. Constitution. The lawsuit stemmed from comments made by Sharpe regarding the ongoing welfare scandal in Mississippi. Despite the dismissal, Favre’s representatives are considering their options and disagree with the court’s decision.
The Background
The legal dispute began when Brett Favre sued Shannon Sharpe for comments made on the popular sports talk show “Undisputed” on FS1. Sharpe’s comments were related to the ongoing fraud welfare scandal in Mississippi, where Favre, along with several others, has been accused of misusing millions of dollars over a period of several years.
Favre characterized Sharpe’s comments as “egregiously false” and sought legal recourse for defamation. However, United States District Court Judge Keith Starrett ruled that Sharpe’s comments were constitutionally protected rhetorical hyperbole, using loose and figurative language.
The Judge’s Ruling
Judge Starrett wrote in his filing, “Sharpe’s comments are constitutionally protected rhetorical hyperbole using loose, figurative language.” Based on this reasoning, the judge dismissed the lawsuit.
Among the contentious comments made by Sharpe, he accused Favre of “taking from the underserved” and stealing money from people in need. Despite the dismissal of the lawsuit, Favre’s representatives have stated that they are evaluating their options and disagree with the court’s decision.
Shannon Sharpe’s Reaction
Shannon Sharpe expressed his delight at the judge’s ruling. He took to social media to share the news, tweeting, “The United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi today dismissed Brett Favre’s defamation lawsuit against me. The court found that the statements were protected by the First Amendment to the Constitution. Thanks to my legal team and their handling of this case.”
Pat McAfee’s Lawsuit
It is worth noting that Brett Favre also filed a defamation lawsuit against former NFL player and media personality Pat McAfee. However, he withdrew the lawsuit after McAfee publicly apologized for accusing Favre of stealing from people in need.
Despite these legal challenges, it is important to emphasize that Brett Favre has not faced any criminal charges related to the welfare case. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing or involvement in the alleged misuse of funds.
