Marcello Hernández, a comedian known for his role on Saturday Night Live, will host the 2026 ESPYS awards. Scheduled for July 15 at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City, the event will be broadcast live on ABC and available for streaming on ESPN+. Hernández, who describes the opportunity as "honor," has a decade-long comedy journey that started in Cleveland. His enthusiasm for sports and connection to New York are highlighted as factors for his selection, according to ESPN’s Executive Producer Craig Lazarus.

By the Numbers
  • The 2026 ESPYS will be held on July 15.
  • Hernández is entering his fourth season with Saturday Night Live.
Yes, But

While Hernández is praised for his comedic talent and sports enthusiasm, some may question whether a comedian's humor can resonate with sports fans during an awards show traditionally honoring athletic achievements.

State of Play
  • Last year's ESPYS were hosted by comedian Shane Gillis.
  • Historically, the awards have featured a mix of comedians and athletes alike as hosts, reflecting a blend of humor and sports culture.
What's Next

As the date approaches, anticipation builds around Hernández's performance, and audiences are eager to see how he blends comedy with honoring sports excellence at the awards show.

Bottom Line

Marcello Hernández's role as the host of the 2026 ESPYS represents a fresh approach to a storied event, highlighting the intersection of comedy and sports, and aiming to engage a diverse audience in celebration of athletic accomplishments.