Marcello Hernández, a prominent figure from "Saturday Night Live," has been announced as the host for the 2026 ESPY Awards. This selection highlights Hernández's growing influence in the entertainment world, following his successful stint on the sketch comedy show and the release of his Netflix special. The ESPYs, a distinguished event recognizing outstanding achievements in sports, are scheduled to take place on July 15 at the prestigious David Koch Theater in New York City's Lincoln Center. This marks the awards' return to the city after an absence of more than 25 years, promising a revitalized atmosphere for both sports enthusiasts and the entertainment industry. The decision to bring the ceremony back to New York, coupled with Hernández's comedic talent, aims to infuse the event with fresh energy and a unique perspective, celebrating the best of athletic performance and storytelling.

The annual awards ceremony, which will be broadcast on ABC and available for streaming on the ESPN app, is a collaborative effort involving ESPN, Full Day Productions, Words + Pictures, and Fanatics Studios. Executive producers Connor Schell, Dave Chamberlin, Jennifer Aiello, Michael D. Ratner, Kfir Goldberg, and Camille Maratchi are spearheading the production, ensuring a memorable experience. Hernández joins an impressive roster of past ESPY hosts, including renowned personalities from both comedy and sports, such as Jimmy Kimmel, John Cena, LeBron James, and Serena Williams. His journey from performing in small venues to headlining such a significant event underscores his dedication and rising stardom. The anticipation for his hosting debut is high, with expectations for an evening filled with humor, celebration, and inspiring moments from the world of sports.

A Comedian's Ascent: From NYC Streets to ESPYS Stage

Marcello Hernández, a breakout star from "Saturday Night Live," is poised to host the 2026 ESPY Awards, a significant career milestone. His selection underscores his rapid rise in the comedy scene, following his notable contributions to "SNL" and the recent success of his Netflix special, "Marcello Hernández: American Boy." This high-profile hosting gig places him among an esteemed group of past hosts, including major figures from both comedy and sports, solidifying his status as a prominent entertainer. Hernández's journey from humble beginnings in comedy to the national spotlight illustrates a compelling narrative of perseverance and talent.

The comedian's path began a decade ago in Cleveland, Ohio, where he honed his craft, often traveling long distances to New York to perform. He recalled selling comedy tickets on the streets of Greenwich Village for stage time, a testament to his early dedication. Hernández expressed profound honor and excitement about hosting the ESPYs in New York, a city that played a crucial role in his development as a performer. His enthusiasm for sports, combined with his strong connection to New York City, makes him a natural and fitting choice for the event, promising an engaging and dynamic show for audiences worldwide.

The ESPY Awards: A Return to New York with a Fresh Voice

The 2026 ESPY Awards are making a grand return to New York City, a move that re-establishes its historical ties to the metropolis after more than 25 years. The ceremony will be held at the iconic David Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on July 15, signifying a new chapter for the prestigious event. This return aims to inject fresh energy into the awards, celebrating the pinnacle of athletic achievement in an environment that bridges the worlds of sports and entertainment. The decision to bring the ESPYs back to New York reflects a strategic effort to enhance its cultural footprint and appeal.

ESPN's Vice President and ESPYS Executive Producer, Craig Lazarus, emphasized that Hernández's genuine passion for sports and his deep roots in New York City made him the ideal host. The production, a collaborative effort by ESPN, Full Day Productions, and Fanatics Studios, is designed to be a vibrant tribute to the year's most impactful sports moments. The ESPYs, which first debuted in 1993 at Madison Square Garden's Theater and later moved to Radio City Music Hall before heading west in 2000, will now re-embrace its New York origins, promising an unforgettable night of recognition and celebration.