Countdown to the 2025 ESPYS: Shane Gillis Takes Center Stage
As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated nights in sports, excitement is building for the 2025 ESPY Awards. Set to air live on Wednesday, July 16, at 8 p.m. ET from the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, this star-studded event promises to celebrate the pinnacle of athletic achievement over the past year.
Hosting Duties: Shane Gillis Steals the Spotlight
This year, comedian Shane Gillis will take the reins as host of the 2025 ESPY Awards, marking a notable return to the trend of non-athlete hosts. Gillis’s appointment follows actor Anthony Mackie, who hosted the awards in 2021. With a passion for sports and a knack for humor, Gillis is set to bring a fresh vibe to the evening.
In a statement, Gillis expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m excited to be at The ESPYS this year. I like sports so this should be a good time.” This genuine enthusiasm resonates especially well with fans, as Gillis is not just any comedian; he’s a dedicated sports aficionado.
Sports Affinity: A Comedian Who Knows the Game
Shane Gillis is more than just a stand-up comic; he has immersed himself in the sports world. He played football at Elon University and is a devout fan of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In fact, he has even created quite a buzz with a memorable moment on ESPN during a “College GameDay” segment. On that occasion, he made headlines for a playful jab at former Alabama coach Nick Saban, commenting on the shifting landscape of college athletics regarding player compensation. Such moments underscore Gillis’s deep-rooted love for sports and make him an ideal choice for hosting an event like the ESPYs.
Craig Lazarus, ESPN’s vice president and executive producer for the ESPYs, echoes this sentiment: “Shane is not only one of the top comedians today, but also a huge sports fan, which made him an easy choice to host The ESPYS.”
The ESPY Awards: All About Celebrating Excellence
The ESPYs, or Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly Awards, have become an annual tradition that honors both athletic achievements and the heartwarming stories behind them. The awards cover a broad spectrum, including categories for Best Male and Female Athlete, Best Breakthrough Athlete, and even honors for Best Coach and Sports Moment of the Year.
This year’s ceremony promises to feature not only Gillis’s comedic take on the events and athletes of the past year but also inspiring stories that captivate audiences around the world. With an engaging mix of laughter, heartfelt moments, and honors, the ESPYs are always a night to remember.
How to Tune In: Essential Viewing Information
For those eager to witness this year’s festivities, here’s what you need to know:
- Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
- Time: 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT)
- Location: The Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles
- Viewing Options: Fans can catch all the action on ESPN+, ensuring that no moment of this special evening is missed.
Shane Gillis’s ESPY Host History
As Gillis prepares for this exciting role, it’s intriguing to look back at the history of ESPY hosts. The event, now in its 33rd year, has seen a variety of celebrities from different backgrounds take the stage. Notable past hosts include:
- 2020: Russell Wilson, Megan Rapinoe, and Sue Bird
- 2019: Tracy Morgan
- 2018: Danica Patrick
- 2017: Peyton Manning
- 2007: LeBron James and Jimmy Kimmel
This rich history reflects the award’s commitment to blending sports and entertainment, bringing together icons from various fields to celebrate the spirit of athletic achievement.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, someone who enjoys comedy, or simply looking for a great evening of entertainment, the 2025 ESPY Awards promise to deliver a unique experience. As Gillis steps into the spotlight, audiences can expect an unforgettable night filled with laughter, accolades, and the celebration of the incredible athletes who inspire us all.