‘SNL' Breakout Star Set to Host ESPN's Biggest Night of the Year

Marcello Hernández joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2022 during Season 48 and has since become a beloved breakout star. Although SNL's latest Season 51 has come to a close, Hernández is still hard at work.

The comedian recently landed a spot hosting ESPN's biggest night, the 2026 ESPY Awards. Returning to New York City for the first time in over 25 years, the ESPYS will take place on July 15, celebrating athletes and the memorable sports performances in the past year.

"I started doing comedy 10 years ago, in Cleveland, Ohio, and I would take the train 12 hours to New York to sell comedy tickets on the street in Greenwich Village in exchange for stage time," Hernández said in a statement to ESPN. "It is an honor, and frankly feels crazy to be hosting the ESPYS this year in New York. I'm sure the energy is going to be great."

Craig Lazarus, ESPN's vice president and executive producer of the ESPYS, called Hernández "one of the most electric young comedians today."

"His genuine enthusiasm for sports and his ties to New York City make him a natural fit to host this year's ESPYS," Lazarus said to ESPN. "We are excited to partner with him to celebrate the best moments in sports and look forward to the fresh take he'll bring to the show."

In January, Hernández released his debut comedy special, Marcello Hernández: American Boy. Available exclusively on Netflix, Hernández tells stories from his Latin roots and his mom's life lessons. When the show released, Hernández said in an Instagram post that stand-up comedy has given him "everything."

"I started comedy at 18 in Cleveland, Ohio, at dive bars, small clubs, and poetry slam rooms," Hernández said. "10 years later, Stand Up has given me everything. If you've ever been to a show, put me on a show, given me advice, or supported me in any way, THANK YOU."

The ESPYS will air live on July 15, 2026, on ABC and ESPN+.

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This story was originally published June 3, 2026 at 8:25 PM.