Caitlyn Jenner receives the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at The 2015 ESPYS on ABC

The 2015 ESPYS

The 2015 ESPYS

Joel McHale hosts The 2015 ESPYS Wednesday, July 15, which air on ABC (8pm ET) for the first time. Celebrities from sports and entertainment gather at the Microsoft Theater (formerly Nokia Theatre) in Los Angeles to honor the major sports achievements of the past year. The Cincinnati Bengals’ Devon Still and his daughter Leah receive the Jimmy V Perseverance Award for their fight against cancer. Former Notre Dame basketball player and wounded Iraq war veteran Danielle Green receives the Pat Tillman Award for Service. Caitlyn (formerly Bruce) Jenner receives the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.

Jenner’s honor has sparked some controversy and skepticism, and some speculated that ESPN and Jenner orchestrated this as a publicity, promotional and ratings stunt. ESPN released this statement on Jenner receiving the award:

“The Arthur Ashe Courage Award is meant to honor individuals whose contributions transcend sports through courageous action. Sometimes that courage is demonstrated over the course of a lifetime and sometimes it is demonstrated in a single act that shines a light on an important contemporary issue. At all times, there are many worthy candidates. This year, we are proud to honor Caitlyn Jenner embracing her identity and doing so in a public way to help move forward a constructive dialogue about progress and acceptance.”

ESPYS Presenters include: Mike Epps, Julie Foudy, Ed Helms, Andre Iguodala, LeBron James, Chris Long, Danica Patrick, Richard Sherman, Britney Spears, Kiefer Sutherland, Vince Vaughn, JJ Watt

Athletes and celebrities scheduled to appear: Odell Beckham Jr., Dez Bryant, Mo’Ne Davis, Victor Espinoza, Brett Favre, Rob Gronkowski, Ken Jeong, Derek Jeter, Cardale Jones, Urban Meyer, Alex Rodriguez, Ronda Rousey, Klay Thompson, Russell Wilson and Caroline Wozniacki

About Ryan Berenz 2166 Articles
Member of the Television Critics Association. Charter member of the Ancient and Mystic Society of No Homers. Squire of the Ancient & Benevolent Order of the Lynx, Lodge 49, Long Beach, Calif. Costco Wholesale Gold Star Member since 2011.