Shane Gillis delivered a controversial monologue at the ESPYs, featuring jokes about sports figures and political topics, which received mixed reactions. ESPN is reportedly not concerned about the backlash, despite criticism over some of his comments about women athletes and Black women.
Lindsey Vonn experienced a wardrobe malfunction at the 2025 ESPYs but handled it with humor and strength, emphasizing that women can be both strong and feminine, and sharing a message of self-acceptance.
Shane Gillis hosted the ESPYs and delivered a controversial monologue that included jokes about sports figures and politics, which received mixed reactions from the audience and social media, highlighting the divisive nature of his humor.
Comedian Shane Gillis's controversial opening monologue at the Espys drew mixed reactions, including boos and laughs, with jokes targeting Caitlin Clark, Donald Trump, and others, amid criticism for racially charged remarks. The ceremony also featured award wins by Simone Biles and Suni Lee, highlighting notable athletic achievements.
The 2025 ESPYs celebrated Philadelphia sports achievements with highlights including Saquon Barkley's award, a Tush Push skit, and local winners, hosted by Philly native Shane Gillis who infused the show with humor and team pride.
The Philadelphia Eagles had an outstanding 2024 NFL season, tying an NFL record with 18 wins, winning Super Bowl LIX, and being awarded Best Team at the 2025 ESPYs, recognizing their dominant performance and record-breaking achievements.
Comedian Shane Gillis faced backlash for making a racist and offensive joke at the 2025 ESPY Awards targeting Black women and WNBA star Caitlin Clark, which was widely condemned on social media. Gillis, known for past controversial remarks, was criticized for crossing boundaries, prompting calls for accountability from the event organizers and the WNBA, which actively opposes racism.
LSU women's basketball star Angel Reese won the Best Breakthrough Athlete award at the ESPYs and confidently declared that "another natty is coming" for the team. Reese, who set the NCAA single-season double-double record in her first season with LSU, thanked her family, coaches, and teammates for their support. The Tigers, led by coach Kim Mulkey, are favored to repeat as national champions in the upcoming season, with the return of Reese and other key players, as well as the addition of star transfers Hailey Van Lith and Aneesah Morrow.
LeBron James officially announced that he will be returning to the Lakers for his 21st NBA season during his acceptance speech for the ESPY award. After sparking retirement speculation following the Lakers' playoff exit, James clarified that he will continue playing as long as he can give his all on the court. The 38-year-old superstar had previously expressed his desire to play alongside his son in the NBA. With the Lakers making offseason additions, they aim to make a deeper playoff run in the upcoming season.
Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson revealed her baby bump on the red carpet at the 2023 ESPYS in Los Angeles, announcing that she and husband Andrew East are expecting their third child. Johnson, who shares two children with East, walked the red carpet in a cyan blue gown and was seen cradling her bump and kissing her spouse. She also posed with fellow gymnast Nastia Liukin, who patted her baby bump. Johnson had previously shared on Instagram that they had been trying for another child and expressed their excitement for the new addition to their family.
The 2023 ESPYS, a star-studded award ceremony honoring athletic achievements, will take place on Wednesday night. The event will feature top athletes, exciting musical performances, and special honorees. The nominees include Nikola Jokic, Aaron Judge, Patrick Mahomes, Lionel Messi, Mikaela Shiffrin, Sophia Smith, Iga witek, and A'ja Wilson. Lil Wayne and H.E.R. are among the musical guests, and athletes such as Dwyane Wade, Sue Bird, Chris Paul, and Mike Tyson will be presenting. The ESPYS also raise awareness and funds for the V Foundation for cancer research.
The Buffalo Bills training staff will be honored at the 2023 ESPYS for their life-saving actions when safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a game. The United States women's national soccer team will receive the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for their pursuit of equal pay, and Liam Hendriks, a Chicago White Sox pitcher and cancer survivor, will be awarded the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. The ESPYS will air on July 12.
The Vegas Golden Knights have been nominated for "Best Team" and Jonathan Marchessault for "Best NHL Player" at The 2023 ESPYS after their victory in the 2023 Stanley Cup Final. Marchessault was also named the 2023 Conn Smythe Trophy Winner, becoming the first undrafted player to win the award since Wayne Gretzky in 1988. Fans can vote for the Golden Knights and Marchessault at ESPN.com/ESPYS, and the ceremony will be broadcast live on July 12 on ABC.