ESPN's Mina Kimes takes over as host of Scripps National Spelling Bee

Fresh off her victory in "Celebrity Jeopardy!" ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes now finds herself on the other side of an intense on-stage competition.

Kimes is taking over this year as the host of the Scripps National Spelling Bee as 247 competitors, ages nine to 15, take part in the 98th annual event.

She becomes the Spelling Bee's first celebrity host since LeVar Burton in 2022, as a new production team, led by "Jeopardy!" executive producer Michael Davies, takes over.

A Yale-educated journalist, Kimes has made her mark on ESPN as a meticulous researcher. She said she's had to prepare for this job in much the same way.

"It honestly does feel a little bit like watching game tape because I really think these kids are elite competitors, not just in terms of being the best of the best, but you can see all of the work that they so clearly put in," Kimes said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. 

When is the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee?

The Scripps National Spelling Bee will take place over three days between May 26-28 at Washington, D.C.'s historic Constitution Hall.

How to watch 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee

ESPN analyst Mina Kimes will host the semifinals and finals along with former national competitor Paul Loeffler, who is celebrating his 20th year as a Bee analyst.

• Quarterfinals: Wednesday, May 27, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. ET on Scripps Sports
• Semifinals: Wednesday, May 27, from 8-10 p.m. ET on ION
• Finals: Thursday, May 28, from 8-10 p.m. ET on ION