Comedian Shane Gillis is under fire following a controversial moment at the 2025 ESPY Awards, where his Shane Gillis Caitlin Clark joke caused shockwaves both in the audience and online. The punchline, delivered during his opening monologue, drew widespread backlash for its racial and gender-based implications.
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Controversial Line During Monologue
While hosting the prestigious sports award show, Gillis cracked a joke about WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark that many viewers found deeply offensive. He said Clark might one day end up working at a Waffle House “so she can keep doing what she loves most: fistfighting Black women.”
The line triggered a stunned reaction in the room. Some people laughed nervously, but others responded with silence or disapproval. Online, social media lit up with criticism accusing Gillis of going too far and reinforcing dangerous racial stereotypes.
Key Points Summary
- Shane Gillis made a controversial joke about Caitlin Clark at the 2025 ESPY Awards.
- The joke included racially charged language referencing “fistfighting Black women.”
- Audience response was mixed: a few laughs, but also groans and visible discomfort.
- Public reaction has been largely critical, with many calling the joke offensive and unnecessary.
- Caitlin Clark, though not present at the show due to team commitments, has not responded publicly.
One Joke Overshadowed the Whole Night
Though Gillis also joked about other sports figures like Bill Belichick and Aaron Rodgers, it was the Caitlin Clark reference that instantly became the most talked-about moment of the night. The comedian has long been known for his edgy, unapologetic humor—but many are questioning whether this time he crossed a line.
The ESPY Awards are typically a celebration of sports excellence and inspirational stories. Gillis’s joke sharply contrasted with the event’s usual tone, especially as Caitlin Clark had just been honored with the award for Best WNBA Player.
Public Backlash Grows
Following the broadcast, athletes, fans, and public figures began speaking out on social media. Many called the joke “tasteless” and “irresponsible,” especially given the larger conversations around race, women in sports, and how Black athletes are portrayed in the media.
Some defenders of Gillis argued that it was just a joke and should be taken lightly, but the overall tone of the reaction leaned heavily toward disappointment. For many, the joke wasn’t just about shock value—it reflected underlying issues in how women, and particularly Black women, are targeted in public narratives.
Why It Matters
The Shane Gillis Caitlin Clark joke may be remembered as more than just a bad punchline. It has sparked an important conversation about the limits of comedy, especially on national platforms like the ESPYs. As athletes like Caitlin Clark continue to break barriers and elevate women’s sports, many believe the spotlight should come with respect—not ridicule.
Gillis has yet to issue a public statement addressing the controversy. Whether the ESPYs organizers will respond or change future hosting plans remains to be seen.
Let us know what you think in the comments—was this just edgy humor gone wrong, or a sign that live-event comedy needs to evolve?