Jacques Bailly, the voice of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, will celebrate his 22nd year as the official pronouncer in 2025. Bailly, who won the National Spelling Bee himself in 1980, has become an integral part of the competition. He is not only responsible for clearly pronouncing the words but also for providing contestants with the word's definition, part of speech, and language of origin.
Bailly's expertise in linguistics and his calm presence have made him a favorite among spellers and viewers. He often shares interesting facts about the etymology of words, adding an educational element to the high-stakes competition. His commitment to the National Spelling Bee has helped maintain its integrity and popularity for over two decades.
Bailly Reaches 22 Years as National Spelling Bee Pronouncer
Jacques Bailly, the official pronouncer for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, will mark his 22nd year in the role in 2025. Bailly, a former spelling bee champion himself, has become a beloved figure in the competition. He is known for his clear pronunciation, insightful etymological tidbits, and calm demeanor under pressure. His dedication helps ensure fairness and provides educational context for spellers and viewers alike.