In the latest filing in his federal lawsuit against Intrepid Studios' board and investors, former CEO Steven Sharif accused opponents of a coordinated defamation campaign. Posted to the Ashes of Creation Discord on April 14, 2026, the statement shares new court exhibits—including threatening texts from key investors Rob Dawson and Jason Caramanis—in response to allegations of fund misuse.
This follows Sharif's earlier lawsuit and the March temporary restraining order barring the board from accessing trade secrets amid the studio's January 2026 shutdown and unpaid layoffs.
Sharif's April 14 statement, accompanying a 195-page filing with 46 exhibits, refutes claims of misusing studio funds for a lavish lifestyle, calling it a 'coordinated defamation campaign' amplified by content creators. He urged supporters to review the documents from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California.
Key revelations include labeling investor Jason Caramanis a 'known violent individual with multiple prior arrests.' Investor Tom Alkazin testified that Dawson and Caramanis grew hostile after Sharif rejected a $250-500 million acquisition offer from Riot Games CFO Mark Sottosanti. Exhibits feature Dawson's texts threatening action against Sharif's husband John Moore, and Caramanis warning of ending Sharif's 'life' if demands weren't met. An email from defendant Aaron Bartels opposed severance for laid-off 'bottom performers.'
Sharif reiterated personally extending millions in credit and guaranteeing loans to sustain Intrepid Studios. He vowed accountability for damages to the company, employees, and community, committing to deliver Ashes of Creation as promised.
