Shane Gillis faces backlash for controversial Caitlin Clark joke at ESPYs
- Shane Gillis hosted the ESPY Awards on July 16, 2025, delivering an opening monologue filled with provocative jokes.
- He faced backlash for a joke about Caitlin Clark, suggesting her future career post-WNBA would involve working at a Waffle House.
- The incident sparked discussions around the appropriateness of humor about female athletes and the context of Gillis's style of comedy.
On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, comedian Shane Gillis hosted the ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, where he delivered an opening monologue packed with edgy jokes. Among his remarks was a controversial quip about WNBA star Caitlin Clark, stating that after retiring, she would work at a Waffle House to continue "fist-fighting Black women." This comment drew mixed reactions from the crowd, with some laughing while others appeared uncomfortable. Clark was notably absent from the event as she was dealing with an apparent injury sustained during a recent game. This incident raised discussions about the appropriateness of humor related to female athletes. As the event unfolded, Gillis also made references to political figures and past controversies, broadening the scope of his humor. Critics, including sports pundit Sarah Spain, expressed concern over his choice of jokes, particularly those targeting female athletes. Gillis's style, characterized by boundary-pushing humor, has garnered attention and reactions since his time on Saturday Night Live, where he was famously fired for past offensive jokes. His performance at the ESPYs sparked debates over the suitability of his hosting duties, especially against a backdrop of increasing visibility and respect for women's sports. In the lead-up to the awards, Caitlin Clark had been a prominent figure, known for her competitive spirit and prowess on the court. However, the timing of Gillis's joke about her post-WNBA career raised eyebrows, particularly as it followed her injury, which was concerning enough to warrant her absence from the awards. Clark had gained a reputation for enduring tough play in the WNBA, further complicating the context for jokes aimed at her. The fallout from Gillis's comments continued to stir conversations about how humor intersects with sports and societal issues, particularly those involving race and gender. The ESPYs are known for celebrating achievements in sports, but Gillis's delivery shifted focus toward controversial topics and personal jabs. As the night progressed, reactions on social media highlighted the divided opinions regarding Gillis’s performance and humor, illustrating the challenges of navigating comedy in sensitive contexts. The incident has catalyzed discussions about the responsibilities of public figures, especially in sports and entertainment, to foster respect and reinforce positive narratives surrounding athletes, particularly women, who continue to break barriers in their respective sports.