Dancing with the Stars celebrated its 20th birthday, and it was fantastic! Former host Tom Bergeron returned to the ballroom, and this time, he took a seat at the judges’ table. And while he was there, Tom fired off a message for ABC.
Tom hosted DWTS from its 2005 debut until he was let go in 2020. Fans were furious that the longtime host and his co-host, Erin Andrews, were pink-slipped. Then, Tyra Banks took over hosting and “smizing” duties until the torch was passed to Alfonso Ribeiro. And Tom was stoked for the Mirrorball champ.
Tom Bergeron appeared as a guest judge on Dancing with the Stars
The DWTS 20th birthday party featured the Season 1 pros taking part in the stunning opening number. Plus, Mirrorball champions from past seasons competed with Season 34 contestants during the dance relay. And, of course, Tom’s judging was witty and on-point.
Well, except for Robert Irwin and Xochitl Gomez’s relay jive against Alix Earle and Joey Graziadei. Instead of critiquing the contestants, he looked into the camera and delivered a message to ABC. “You guys were great. But in my last comments as a judge, I want to talk directly to the network,” Tom stated.
“This show is setting ratings records again, so next season, bring back the results show. Let the whole country vote,” he said. “Let everybody vote.” Yes, Tom!
Back when dinosaurs roamed the earth, DWTS had a two-night format. The performances were on one night. Then, the results and elimination were the next night. The results show gave viewers behind-the-scenes action, guest performances, and more dancing. Plus, it allowed for a longer voting window.
I am thrilled that Tom was back in the ballroom. It wouldn’t have felt right if he weren’t a part of the DWTS 20th birthday spectacular.
Dancing with the Stars airs on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+. It will stream on Hulu the next day.
TELL US – WHAT DID YOU THINK OF TOM’S MESSAGE TO THE NETWORK? WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE A RESULTS SHOW?
