Tom Bergeron Returns to DWTS, Advocates for Voting Reform
Former “Dancing With the Stars” host Tom Bergeron made an emotional return to the ballroom as a special guest judge for the show’s 20th-anniversary celebration, marking his first appearance since his 2020 departure over creative differences. Welcomed by current co-hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, Bergeron's reunion with Hough was particularly poignant, with Hough tearing up as she embraced her longtime friend. Their friendship spans nearly two decades, with Bergeron hosting from seasons 1-29 and Hough previously a pro dancer before becoming a host in 2023. Bergeron expressed his thrill at being back, acknowledging the “rush” of the live environment.
During his tenure as honorary guest judge, Bergeron used his platform to address the network directly rather than the contestants. He passionately advocated for the return of the former two-episode format, specifically the results show, urging producers to “let the whole country vote.” He explained that the prior format featured performance nights followed by a separate results episode, allowing more equitable voting across time zones. Since 2013, DWTS adopted a single, two-hour weekly episode, incorporating eliminations at the end, which Bergeron believes disadvantages West Coast viewers and diminishes the show's “variety show” aspect. He noted that current record ratings indicate the time is ripe to reinstate the two-night system.
Bergeron's advocacy echoes his past sentiments about leaving the show, having stated that “the show that I left was not the show that I loved,” citing “butting heads” behind the scenes. His return clearly resonated deeply with fans and former colleagues. Following the reunion, Bergeron posted an emotional Instagram video, visibly choked up while thanking fans for their overwhelmingly positive reactions. Julianne Hough and numerous fans commented, praising his enduring “voice, wit & warmth,” and expressing that his presence brought immense “sunshine and happiness,” making it feel like he “never left.”
As Tom Bergeron makes his comeback, he emphasizes the importance of engaging audiences in discussions about pop culture voting reform to influence change through entertainment.
(Source: https://www.lifeandstylemag.com/posts/tom-bergeron-gets-emotional-at-dwts-20th-anniversary/)
