Tom Bergeron hosted DWTS for over 20 seasons. Viewers loved him. He was unexpectedly let go in 2020. He finally returns to the ballroom five years later in an exciting new role. Keep reading for all the details.
Tom Bergeron, Erin Andrews Fired From DWTS
Tom Bergeron’s exit from DWTS is a black spot in the show’s history. He was fired in 2020 after hosting the show since it premiered in 2005. His co-host, Erin Andrews, was let go at the same time. The show’s official explanation was that they were going in a new direction.
America’s Next Top Model host Tyra Banks was brought in to replace Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews. But viewers revolted against the change. Tyra left after three seasons. Alfonso Ribeiro, who joined as her co-host in Season 31, took over as host alongside Julianne Hough.
But angry over his exit, Tom Bergeron shared his side of the story on former DWTS pro Cheryl Burke’s podcast. He made a public statement while he was still host about former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer competing on Season 28.
The show typically casts at least one controversial contestant, but Tom Bergeron felt a political public figure was too far, especially giving the political climate at the time. He released a statement disagreeing with the decision. He offered to take a year off, but the show fired him instead. Erin Andrews was let go as collateral damage.
He Returns In An Exciting New Role
DWTS viewers never thought they would see Tom Bergeron on the show again after his tense exit. But as they say, time heals all wounds. The ABC show has a huge birthday celebration played on November 11th for its 20th anniversary.
Tom Bergeron’s return is just one of the special moments in store. But he’s not returning as host. Instead, he will join Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli as a guest judge.
Why He Said Yes For Special Episode
Tom Bergeron, who now lives in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, spoke to TV Insider about his surprise return. He explained why he said yes when asked to return to DWTS. His return came about because the current showrunner, Conrad Green, reached out. Tom Bergeron revealed that Conrad Green was the showrunner when he was the host and returned a few seasons ago. When his old friend reached out, Tom Bergeron immediately said yes.
The former DWTS host shared what viewers can expect from his as a guest judge. “It’s going to be very similar to my hosting style: somewhat loose and unpredictable.” And unlike Carrie Ann, he doesn’t plan on taking notes.
“I’m anticipating that it’s going to be a wonderfully emotional, nostalgic night. In the audience will be a number of past champions and competitors. There’s a special dance challenge that is going to factor into the anniversary night that will evoke even more nostalgia. It’s going to be great,” he added about the milestone night.
Don’t miss Tom Bergeron’s long-awaited return to the ballroom on Tuesday, November 11. Hopefully, the dispute between Disney and Google is resolved by then so YouTube TV subscribers can watch DWTS live.
Jennifer Havener grew up in a small town in Upstate New York. She earned her B.A in Writing & Literature from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. She always knew watching reality TV shows and soap operas, particularly ‘Days of Our Lives’, would come in handy someday. When she’s not writing, she’s playing with her dogs, Lola and Ruger
