Mina Kimes is trading the gridiron for the spelling bee stage. The ESPN star, known for her sharp NFL analysis, has been tapped as the new host of the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee semifinals and finals, set for May 27-28 on ION. It's a role that hits close to home for Kimes, who was a three-time school spelling bee champion in her youth.
"Wish I could travel back in time and tell my 2nd grade self I'd be doing this!" Kimes wrote on X, reflecting on the honor. "Such an honor to be part of this year's National Spelling Bee." The announcement, made Tuesday, has sparked excitement among fans and colleagues alike, who see it as a full-circle moment for the versatile broadcaster.
Kimes isn't just a familiar face on ESPN—she's also made waves on the red carpet, as seen when she stunned in a black dress at the NFL Draft. Now, she'll bring that same charisma to the spelling bee stage. "My goal in this is to give it the big-game feel," Kimes told the Associated Press. "Any event that requires skill and knowledge and preparation can have that feel if it's presented with enough care and pride on television."
The Scripps National Spelling Bee has a storied history on ESPN, but in recent years, it has moved to ION and Bounce. Kimes' hiring is seen as a move to reverse declining ratings and inject fresh energy into the event. ESPN's Bill Hofheimer celebrated the pick on X: "Congrats to ESPN's @minakimes. A three-time school spelling bee champion growing up, Mina is the new host of the @ScrippsBee national competition later this month in Washington, DC."
Fans echoed the sentiment. "Nice full-circle moment—Mina Kimes going from spelling bee champ to hosting the biggest one. Should bring great energy to the Scripps National Spelling Bee stage!" one user wrote. Another added, "Perfect fit. She's not just hosting she's a 3x champ herself." A third chimed in, "This is actually one of those rare moments where media gets it exactly right."
Kimes' appointment comes amid a busy sports calendar, with events like the Fever's 2026 slate making WNBA history and Dystany Spurlock set to shatter NASCAR barriers. But for Kimes, this is a personal milestone. "The Scripps Bee got Mina Kimes??? W move. May 27-28 on ION. Three-time school champ hosting feels right," a fan posted.
As Kimes prepares to take the stage in Washington, D.C., she's determined to make the competition unforgettable. "She's not just hosting; she's a three-time champ herself," one observer noted, underscoring the authenticity she brings. With her blend of sports savvy and spelling pedigree, Kimes is poised to turn the spelling bee into must-see TV.
