Bernard Lee

Bernard Lee was born on May 16, 1970, in New York City, New York. He later moved to Wayland, Massachusetts, where he resides. Lee graduated from Harvard University with a degree in government, making him one of the few Ivy League graduates in the poker world.

Lee first gained prominence by finishing 13th in the 2005 World Series of Poker Main Event, earning $400,000. This deep run put him on the map and remains his largest single cash to date. He has since achieved significant success in major tournaments, including winning the $5,000 No-Limit Hold'em event at the 2006 World Poker Finals ($368,919) and the $2,000 No-Limit Hold'em event at the 2007 World Poker Finals ($239,143). In October 2008, he won the $600 No-Limit Hold'em Shoot-out event at the World Poker Finals, earning his third title in three consecutive years at that series. As of 2012, his live tournament winnings exceeded $1,900,000, and as of 2023, his total live earnings stand at over $2,406,503.

Lee has cashed 122 times in live tournaments, with 29 WSOP cashes (including two final tables), 6 WPT cashes, and one EPT cash. His consistent performance across multiple major tours underscores his skill and longevity in the game.

Since September 2005, Lee has written a Sunday poker column for the Boston Herald. In April 2006, he became a regular columnist for ESPN.com's poker page. He published his first book, The Final Table, Volume I, in July 2008, followed by The Final Table, Volume II in December 2008. These books compile his columns and offer insights into poker strategy and the lifestyle of a professional player.

In May 2007, Lee launched "The Bernard Lee Poker Show," a radio program in the Boston area and on Rounder's Radio, featuring interviews with top poker players and industry figures. The show has become a staple in poker media, and by 2024 it celebrated its 17th anniversary. Lee has also commentated for the World Series of Poker website, ESPN360.com, and the Eastern Poker Tour. In August 2009, he became co-host of ESPN's weekly poker show, ESPN Inside Deal.

Lee has been teaching poker privately since 2005 and has instructed at WPT Boot Camps. He is also active in charity, hosting an annual holiday charity drive and participating in poker charity events for education and healthcare. His commitment to giving back has made him a respected figure both at and away from the tables.

Lee continues to play in tournaments, with recent cashes in 2022 at the RGPS Iowa and WSOP Colossus. He also won a national championship in pickleball in 2023, showcasing his athletic versatility. His radio show remains a platform for discussing poker news and interviewing prominent figures, such as Eric Danis, President of Global Poker Index and Hendon Mob, in a 2019 episode about the inaugural Global Poker Awards.

Bernard Lee's impact on poker extends beyond his tournament results. As a columnist, author, and radio host, he has helped popularize the game and provide education to aspiring players. His Harvard education and articulate commentary have made him a trusted voice in poker media, and his longevity in the game is a testament to his skill and dedication.