2020 ESPYS takes fans by surprise but they aren't sorry for not knowing it's on-air: 'Ain't watching this s**t'
The 2020 ESPYS might have decided to go virtual keeping in mind the safety measures after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, but the move doesn't seem to have won any fans. "This is our moment to prove that we know a better world is one where Black lives are valued," ESPN tweeted after the inspirational intro. However, this earned the wrath of some of the fans.
Hosts Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, OL Reign wing and former Portland Pilot Megan Rapinoe and Seattle Storm point guard Sue Bird wore 'Black Lives Matter' shirts and gave a heartfelt tribute to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery.
"This is gonna be the worst espys of all time. Yes worse than Caitlyn Jenner getting the courage award," a fan wrote. "Do black lives matter to you when they’re not throwing touchdowns or shooting free throws? That’s a word," a fan opined. "I don’t think anyone is watching the ESPYs," another fan tweeted. "U showed Jackie Robinson & Bill Russell. That was the 1940s & 1950s. If black lives weren't valued would he have had a chance to play in the NBA that long ago? Show some gratitude for Branch Rickey and Red Auerbach giving those guys the chance to play," a fan remarked. "Didn’t even know today was the Espys tbh," a fan wrote. "We definitely ain't watching this s**t," wrote another fan. "@ESPN if you don’t support paying college student-athletes then you are the problem," said another fan.
"Hmmm, apparently no winners. Just highlights. I’ve seen this before," exclaimed one of the fans. "Can’t wait until July when ESPN puts together something for #WhiteHistoryMonth," a fan tweet read. "Stop playing the victim card. Stop playing the race card. This is 2020. Get over it," a fan wrote. "I am embarrassed for the media today including u guys. U blindly support your own agenda without taking into account the diversity of your audience. It's like cutting off your collective noses despite your faces. I guarantee your ratings have nose-dived," a fan wrote.
ESPY Awards is currently airing on ESPN.