(Scypre.com) – During the 2024 ESPY Awards, hosted by tennis icon Serena Williams and comedian Quinta Brunson, a light-hearted moment unfolded as they took a playful jab at Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker. This incident occurred while the trio discussed the importance of supporting women’s sports.
In a segment highlighting the need for appreciation of women’s athletic achievements, Venus Williams passionately stated, “So, go ahead and enjoy women’s sports like you would any other sports, because they are sports.” This sentiment was met with laughter when Serena Williams chimed in, “Except you, Harrison Butker. We don’t need you.” Brunson quickly followed up with, “At all. Like, ever,” eliciting further amusement from the audience.
Though Butker was present at the awards show, the cameras did not capture his reaction to the humorous remark.
The light-hearted roast stems from controversy surrounding Butker’s recent commencement speech at Benedictine College in May. During the speech, he made remarks suggesting that one of the “most important” roles for women is as homemakers, which sparked significant backlash. “How many of you are sitting here now, about to cross this stage, and are thinking about all the promotions and titles you are going to get in your career? Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world,” Butker said. He continued, “But I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world,” a comment that many found “uncomfortable” and inappropriate for the occasion.
In response to the criticism, an NFL spokesperson clarified that Butker’s views do not represent those of the league. However, Butker has stood firm in his beliefs, stating he has no regrets about his comments.
This isn’t the first time Butker has faced scrutiny from public figures. Earlier in May, during a concert in Las Vegas, Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder also criticized the kicker, asserting, “There’s nothing more masculine than a strong man supporting a strong woman.”