Fri Jul 18 08:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Shane Gillis Sparks Controversy with Unfiltered ESPYs Monologue
**Los Angeles, CA -** Comedian Shane Gillis ignited a firestorm of reactions with his no-holds-barred monologue at the ESPY Awards on Wednesday night. Gillis, known for his edgy humor, took aim at a wide range of targets, from President Donald Trump and the Jeffrey Epstein scandal to college football stars and WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark, leaving some audience members visibly uncomfortable.
The comedian wasted no time in pushing boundaries. He referenced the Epstein files with a dark joke, suggesting its deletion before moving on to sports figures. Deion Sanders’ son, Shedeur, was a target, with Gillis attributing the retirement of his college jersey to nepotism rather than exceptional performance.
Gillis also drew comparisons to the late Norm Macdonald with a controversial joke about Jacksonville Jaguars star Travis Hunter potentially losing his Heisman Trophy if he “killed his wife and a waiter.” Macdonald made a similar joke in the 1998 ESPYs.
Perhaps the most talked-about moment was Gillis’ joke about Caitlin Clark, where he quipped about their shared Midwestern roots and ability to make three-pointers before adding, “When Caitlin Clark retires from the WNBA, she’s going to work at a Waffle House, so she can continue doing what she loves most: fist-fighting Black women.” The joke was met with a mixed reaction from the audience.
Gillis’ performance has sparked debate online, with some praising his willingness to challenge boundaries and others criticizing his jokes as insensitive and offensive. The monologue has undoubtedly secured its place in ESPY Awards history as one of the most talked-about – and divisive – moments in recent memory.
First Piper 