A tearful reunion took place on the set of Dancing With The Stars, marking its 20th anniversary. Former host Tom Bergeron made a triumphant return, welcomed with open arms by current host Alfonso Ribeiro and guest judge Julianne Hough. The episode, aired on November 11th, was an emotional rollercoaster, featuring perfect scores and a shocking elimination. But the real buzz was around Bergeron's comeback, almost five years after his controversial departure from the ABC series.
Bergeron's presence on the stage brought a rush of nostalgia and excitement. Julianne Hough, fighting back tears, introduced him as an honorary guest judge, her voice cracking with emotion. The moment was a powerful reminder of the show's rich history and the impact it has had on its fans and participants.
Tom Bergeron's return to Dancing With The Stars is a controversial topic, and here's why: he was fired from the show in 2020 after speaking out against the casting of Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary to Donald Trump. However, Bergeron has since stated that the show has returned to its essence, and he was willing to come back under certain conditions.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Bergeron revealed that he wouldn't have returned if the previous regime was still in charge. Showrunner Conrad Green, who worked with Bergeron in 2005, extended an olive branch and met his terms. Bergeron's return is a sign of the show's resurgence and its ability to adapt and evolve, a rare feat for a 20-year-old series. He even compared the show's success to a zebra playing the piano - an unlikely, yet captivating, sight.
New episodes of Dancing With The Stars air Tuesdays at 8/7c on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu and ABC.com. This anniversary episode is a must-watch for fans, offering a glimpse into the show's past and a glimpse of its promising future.
What do you think of Tom Bergeron's return? Is it a sign of the show's strength or a controversial move? Share your thoughts in the comments!
