Dancing With The Stars: Tom Bergeron Return of Old Host

Tom Bergeron returns for Dancing With The Stars’ 20th anniversary. Julianne Hough starts crying.

Tom Bergeron’s Wonderful Welcome

Dancing with the Stars completed 20 years, and on this occasion, the show welcomed back its most iconic host, Tom Bergeron.

Current hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough welcomed him with open hearts.

Julianne was overwhelmed with emotions. She stood on stage, clinging to Tom, holding back tears.

Tom told Julianne, “Hi sweetheart, I’m so happy to be here.” Their friendship has spanned almost 20 years!

“My Happy Place” – Tom’s Nostalgic Feeling

Tom was made an honorary member of the judges’ table that night.

He said he wanted to see dances that gave him “goosebumps,” but had to avoid a “concussion” while sitting next to judge Bruno Tonioli!

Before the show, Tom had expressed his excitement for this moment.

He joked, “Now I don’t have to worry about commercials or timing. I just enjoy myself with my friends. Live TV is my ‘happy place.'”

Hosting Journey: From Tom to Alfonso

Tom hosted the show’s first 29 seasons, but in 2020, he and co-host Erin Andrews were removed from the show.

Producers said this step was necessary to “refresh” the show.

He was replaced first by Tyra Banks, who hosted until 2022. Then Alfonso (a former winner himself) joined the show.

In 2023, Julianne Hough, formerly a professional dancer, became the host.

Why did Tom leave the show?

A major reason for Tom’s departure was politics. The show cast President Donald Trump’s former press secretary, Sean Spicer, in season 28. Tom did not like this at all.

He had spoken to the producers about not bringing politics into the show.

He was upset that the producers did the very thing they had tried to avoid. He said the show “should always stay away from politics.”

Heart-Breaking Moment

Tom Bergeron’s return was a memorable one, reminding fans of 20 years of love.

Like an old friend, he returned briefly, made everyone laugh, cry, and then departed.