ABC Hopes National Spelling Bee's "Intellectual Athletes" Will Hook Viewers Like The "American Idols" Did...

LA Times   |   Johanna Neuman   |   May 30, 2006 11:34 AM

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Now that "American Idol" has bowed out for the season, ABC is betting that the show's formula -- nervous civilians performing live -- will turn the once-stodgy National Spelling Bee into the latest reality TV phenom.

For the first time in its 79-year history, the Bee is going live in prime time with the final rounds on Thursday. Robin Roberts of "Good Morning America" will host the event, broadcast for the first time in high definition with 5.1-channel surround sound.

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