Shane Gillis Mocks Trump, Epstein Files at 2025 ESPYs

Comedian Shane Gillis faced significant backlash after his opening monologue as host of the 2025 ESPYs, where he made several provocative jokes targeting President Donald Trump, the Jeffrey Epstein files, and athletes like Caitlin Clark. Gillis mocked the controversy surrounding the Epstein documents by joking that an Epstein joke was 'deleted' or never existed, referencing the Department of Justice's memo denying the existence of Epstein's client list, which Trump had also labeled a hoax. He further took aim at Trump by referencing the president's rumored plan to stage a UFC fight on the White House lawn, linking it to the January 6 Capitol attack. The monologue caused visible discomfort among attendees and sparked outrage among viewers on social media, who criticized the comedian for tastelessness and insensitivity. Other jokes, including those about WNBA star Caitlin Clark and MLB player Juan Soto, also attracted criticism for perceived racial insensitivity. The episode highlighted the ongoing public and political tensions surrounding the Epstein case and President Trump's handling of it.