Tom Bergeron is set to make a triumphant return to the ballroom as he hosts the 20th anniversary episode of “Dancing With the Stars,” which will air on November 11. The beloved figure, who first graced the show in its 2005 premiere and hosted for an impressive 15 years, will be joined by several original professional dancers from the series during this special celebration.
Bergeron, alongside co-host Erin Andrews, left the show in July 2020. He announced the departure via a post on X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude for the unique journey he experienced on the program and the enduring friendships he formed. Reflecting on the emotional impact of his exit, Bergeron later revealed that the decision was influenced by behind-the-scenes developments, specifically the controversial casting of Sean Spicer, the former press secretary for President Donald Trump. His outspoken objections to the casting led him to feel blindsided and betrayed by producers, which he discussed on Cheryl Burke’s podcast in 2023.
Following Bergeron’s exit, Tyra Banks took over as host starting in Season 29, followed by Alfonso Ribeiro in Season 31. After Banks’ departure, Julianne Hough stepped in before Ribeiro and Hough became the current co-hosts starting in Season 32.
Meanwhile, the latest season of “Dancing With the Stars” has been breaking audience and voting records, showcasing a resurgence in popularity. The impressive “Wicked” night episode garnered 6.6 million viewers, marking an 11% increase from the previous week’s emotional Dedication Night. This season has also achieved a new milestone in fan engagement, with over 53 million votes cast, making it the first fall show in 34 years to experience five consecutive weeks of audience growth following its premiere.
“Dancing With the Stars” airs weekly on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu. With Bergeron’s return and the show’s continued success, fans are surely in for a memorable anniversary celebration.