Hernández Shreds Belichick, Woods & Gillis at ESPYs 2026

Host Takes Center Stage

Marcello Hernández opened the 2026 ESPY Awards Wednesday night at New York City’s David H. Koch Theater. The SNL alum delivered a roughly ten‑minute monologue filled with sports‑themed barbs. While on stage he tossed jabs at Bill Belichick and Tiger Woods, setting a combative tone for the night.

Belichick Juggle and the 1973 Knicks Milestone

One punchline linked the Knicks’ recent championship to an age‑gap joke. Hernández noted that the franchise clinched its first NBA title since 1973 and used that year to compare Bill Belichick’s current age to his girlfriend’s. He walked through a quick timeline: “In 1973, hockey players didn’t wear helmets, basketball had no three‑point line, and in 1973, Bill Belichick was the age his girlfriend is now.” He then asked the audience, “Is that the line? Is that where you’re drawing the line?” UNC head coach and his 25‑year‑old girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, were the butt of the jest.

Tiger Woods Off‑Road Mishap Steaks the Spotlight

Woods’ recent legal trouble dominated part of the routine. In March, the golfer was arrested for driving under the influence after a rollover crash in Florida, his fourth reckless‑driving incident since 2009. Hernández slid a video‑game reference into the mix, teasing that “Tiger Woods will be on the cover of ‘Grand Theft Auto.’” The crowd heard his affection for the champion: “I love you, Tiger. I’m a big fan, man. It was just written so well.”

Caleb Williams Hits Madden Cover, Woods Lands GTA Spot

Another highlight was a shout‑out to Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears quarterback who will grace the new “Madden” game. Hernández congratulated him on the cover, then paired that with Woods’ upcoming appearance in “Grand Theft Auto.” The two video‑game nods bookended a moment of NFL fanfare.

Shade to Former Host Shane Gillis

The comedian also turned the mic on last year’s host, Shane Gillis. He declared, “He is watching from home like a true American—on his couch, drinking a beer, while a Hispanic guy does his job.” The line landed as a playful dig at Gillis’s recent controversies and hinted at a cultural backdrop.

ESPYs Night Wrapped Up

Overall, Hernández’s set delivered the expected mix of humor and sports commentary, peppered with timely references to recent headlines. From Belichick’s age to Woods’ crash, the monologue kept fans guessing what joke would come next. The ceremony continues to serve as a stage for witty spitballs and celebratory moments.