The Dan Patrick Show: Hour 1 – Shane Gillis Kills it as Host of the ESPY’s
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Host/Authors: LaVar Arrington, Brady Quinn, Jonas Knox
Network: iHeartPodcasts and Dan Patrick Podcast Network
Introduction
In this episode of "The Dan Patrick Show," hosts LaVar Arrington, Brady Quinn, and Jonas Knox step in to deliver engaging sports and entertainment commentary. The primary focus revolves around Shane Gillis's performance as the host of the ESPY Awards, delving into both praise and criticism from the audience.
Shane Gillis Hosting the ESPYs
Initial Reactions and General Sentiment ([03:27] - [04:56])
The hosts kick off the discussion by sharing their immediate reactions to Shane Gillis's hosting stint at the ESPYs. Jonas Knox expresses amusement and curiosity about the public's reception:
Jonas Knox [03:27]: "I felt overly entertained last night a bit by Shane Gillis and the ESPYs."
LaVar Arrington adds that comedians often push boundaries, which can lead to mixed reactions in today's more sensitive climate:
LaVar Arrington [04:15]: "They bring them in, cross the line. That's why they're comedians."
Breaking Down the Clips ([05:43] - [08:58])
The trio reviews six notable clips from Gillis's hosting performance. Each clip includes jokes that may have trolled or offended various segments of the audience.
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Clip 1: SGA's Introduction ([05:58] - [07:15])
- Jonas Knox: "Number one. SGA is here. Give it up for SGA."
- LaVar Arrington: "Hell yeah, bro."
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Clip 2: Caitlin Clark and Trigger Warning ([06:02] - [07:31])
- Shane Gillis's Joke: "When Caitlin Clark retires from the WNBA, she's going to work at Waffle House so she can continue doing what she loves most—fist fighting black women."
- Brady Quinn [07:54]: "Fight black women at the Waffle House. That's got to be a number two."
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Clip 3: Brittany Hicks Misrepresentation ([06:37] - [08:58])
- Jonas Knox: "Four-time WNBA All-Star Brittany Hicks is here."
- LaVar Arrington: "Shout outs to a lady that doesn't even play in the WNBA."
The hosts criticize Gillis for targeting groups indiscriminately, highlighting the discomfort such jokes may cause:
LaVar Arrington [08:06]: "Stop acting like stuff matters and getting outraged when somebody calls it out."
Impact and Future of Shane Gillis as Host ([08:58] - [12:04])
The conversation shifts to the potential repercussions of Gillis's controversial jokes. Brady Quinn speculates that Gillis might not be invited back:
Brady Quinn [08:58]: "I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say he probably won't be invited back to do the ESPYs again."
LaVar Arrington agrees, emphasizing the fine line comedians walk:
LaVar Arrington [09:04]: "You can look at the names and put together how you feel about it."
The hosts debate the balance between comedic freedom and audience sensitivity, questioning whether such performances tarnish the event's reputation.
Discussion on Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick
Robert Kraft's Risk and Belichick's Response ([18:00] - [43:23])
Shifting gears, the hosts delve into a heated exchange between NFL legends Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, and Bill Belichick, the team's head coach. The conversation centers on Kraft's recent comments about hiring Belichick.
Robert Kraft’s Statement ([31:52] - [32:46]) Robert Kraft publicly discussed the risk he took by hiring Belichick in 1999, trading a first-round draft pick, a move initially criticized by fans and media:
Robert Kraft Quote: "In 99, I gave up a number one draft pick for a coach who had only won a little over 40% of his games to get him out."
Belichick’s Rebuttal and Analysis ([32:46] - [43:23]) Belichick responds by highlighting the transformative impact he had on the Patriots, contrasting his success with Kraft's management decisions:
Brady Quinn [34:07]: "Belichick would have moved on to whatever's next. Next question."
The hosts analyze Kraft's motivations, suggesting he may be seeking recognition for his role in the Patriots' dynasty:
LaVar Arrington [35:29]: "He sees himself as the architect of one of the greatest sports franchises."
Jonas Knox criticizes Kraft for publicizing internal decisions that belittle Belichick's accolades:
Jonas Knox [39:12]: "Why do you feel like Robert Kraft needed to say what he said, how he said it?"
Brady Quinn points out that despite European-style diplomacy, Kraft's comments are seen as an attempt to overshadow Belichick:
Brady Quinn [40:19]: "Robert Kraft sees himself as the architect of one of the greatest sports franchises."
Conclusion on Kraft vs. Belichick ([43:23] - [44:52]) The discussion concludes with an acknowledgment of Kraft's significant role and the entrenched dynamics within the Patriots organization:
LaVar Arrington [44:52]: "He shoots his shot when he feels like doing it, whether people approve of it or not."
Light-Hearted Moments and Personal Anecdotes
Throughout the episode, the hosts interject personal stories and humorous exchanges. Notably, LaVar Arrington shares his frustrating experience with renewing his passport:
LaVar Arrington [28:14]: "The line was longer than probably the line to get into heaven or hell."
These segments provide a break from the intense discussions, adding relatability and levity to the show.
Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
As the episode progresses towards its conclusion, the hosts reflect on the themes of comedic boundaries and leadership within professional sports. They emphasize the importance of understanding and navigating public perception, whether in entertainment or sports management.
Notable Quotes
- LaVar Arrington [04:15]: "They bring them in, cross the line. That's why they're comedians."
- Brady Quinn [07:54]: "Fight black women at the Waffle House. That's got to be a number two."
- Brady Quinn [08:58]: "I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say he probably won't be invited back to do the ESPYs again."
- Brady Quinn [34:07]: "Belichick would have moved on to whatever's next. Next question."
- LaVar Arrington [35:29]: "He sees himself as the architect of one of the greatest sports franchises."
Conclusion
This episode of "The Dan Patrick Show" offers an insightful exploration of Shane Gillis's controversial ESPY hosting and a deep dive into the dynamics between Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick. The hosts adeptly balance critical analysis with personal anecdotes, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of both comedic boundaries in entertainment and leadership challenges in professional sports.
Listen to the episode on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.