Sports
Comedian Shane Gillis' Awkward ESPYS Monologue Draws Mixed Reactions
Gillis called out famous faces in the Dolby Theatre crowd, including retired WNBA star Diana Taurasi, who was to receive the Icon Award.
July 17, 2025
Comedian Shane Gillis' opening monologue as host of the ESPYS went over awkwardly in front of some of the biggest names in sports on Wednesday night.
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Early on, he called out various famous faces in the Dolby Theatre crowd, including retired WNBA star Diana Taurasi, who was to receive the Icon Award later in the evening. Gillis said, "Give it up for her" after calling her "Deanna." The camera showed an unsmiling Taurasi shaking her head. Gillis quickly caught his mistake, saying, "My bad on that."
Gillis moved on to WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark, who wasn't on hand.
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