Shane Gillis Sparks Controversy at ESPYs with Epstein Joke, Jabs at Caitlin Clark and Shedeur Sanders
Shane Gillis Stirs Controversy with Bold Jokes at 2025 ESPYs
(Images: [1] Gillis on stage; [2] Audience reactions; [3] Red carpet moments)
Comedian Shane Gillis sparked shock and laughter at the 2025 ESPYs with a politically charged monologue targeting Donald Trump, Jeffrey Epstein, and sports stars like Caitlin Clark. The event, held at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre, saw Gillis balancing edgy humor with moments that left the audience gasping.
Trump and Epstein Jokes Draw Reactions
Gillis opened by mocking Trump’s proposed UFC fight on the White House lawn: “The last time he staged a fight in D.C., Mike Pence almost died.” He then pivoted to Epstein, alluding to Trump’s unfulfilled promise to release the financier’s files: “There was supposed to be an Epstein joke here, but I guess it got deleted… Let’s move on as a country.” The jab referenced recent backlash from anti-trans activist Riley Gaines, who criticized Trump for dismissing calls to disclose Epstein’s records. Social media erupted, with one fan calling Gillis’ Disney-owned ESPN bit “one of the most badass things ever.”
(Image: Gillis delivering his monologue, caption: “Gillis pushed boundaries with jokes about Trump and Epstein”)
Roasting Sports Icons
Gillis didn’t spare athletes either. He quipped that WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark would retire to “fist-fight Black women at Waffle House,” adding they’re both “Midwesterners who nailed a bunch of threes.” Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders faced nepotism jabs: “He went 13-12 and almost won the Alamo Bowl. Definitely not nepotism.”
MLB star Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter betting scandal inspired a “pitcher, hitter, and bookie” dig, while Bill Belichick’s 49-year-age-gap relationship prompted a risqué punchline: “He’s dating a hot 24-year-old. Maybe if you won six Super Bowls, you wouldn’t be next to a fat ugly dog wife.” The crowd gasped, prompting Gillis to joke, “They let me do it. This is Disney!”
(Image: Druski’s stunned reaction, caption: “Comedian Druski reacts to Gillis’ bold quips”)
Olympic Humor and Attendees
Simone Biles, honored for her gymnastics dominance, was compared to a “leprechaun” guarding gold at a rainbow’s end. The star-studded audience included Russell Wilson and Ciara, Alex Morgan, and Biles’ teammate Suni Lee. Biles won Best Athlete in Women’s Sports, while Clark took WNBA Player of the Year.
(Image: Gillis with girlfriend Grace Brassel on the red carpet, caption: “Gillis arrives at the ESPYs with Grace Brassel”)
Trump’s Unexpected Praise
Despite Gillis’ barbs, Trump previously called himself a “fan” of the comedian in a Spectator interview, citing Gillis’ MAGA-leaning humor. Gillis, however, hasn’t endorsed Trump.
The night blended cringe and applause, solidifying Gillis’ reputation as a provocateur unafraid to skewer power players—both on and off the stage.
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