Marcello Hernández to Host 2026 ESPY Awards in New York

Comedian and "Saturday Night Live" cast member Marcello Hernández will host the 2026 ESPY Awards, marking the show's return to New York City after a 25-year run in Los Angeles. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC from the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on July 15.

The event honors the past year's top athletes and sports moments. Hernández, 28, recently concluded his fourth season on "Saturday Night Live" and released his debut Netflix comedy special, "Marcello Hernández: American Boy," in January. He is also a sports enthusiast who played collegiate soccer at John Carroll University.

In a statement, Hernández reflected on his journey to the role, noting he began performing comedy a decade ago in Cleveland. He said he would take a 12-hour train to New York to sell comedy tickets on the street in Greenwich Village in exchange for stage time. He called it an honor and said hosting the ESPYs in New York feels crazy, adding that he is sure the energy will be great.

Craig Lazarus, ESPN vice president and executive producer of the ESPYs, said in a statement that Hernández is one of the most electric young comedians today. He said Hernández's genuine enthusiasm for sports...