Tom Bergeron Reveals Which “Dancing with the Stars” Winner Almost Took Over for Him as Host Before Tyra Banks

Tom Bergeron, the former long-standing host of “Dancing with the Stars,” has recently shared some intriguing insights regarding his departure from the show in 2020. He reveals that discussions were held to potentially have a previous champion step into his hosting shoes. On the March 11 episode of “The BobbyCast,” hosted by Bobby Bones — who won the show in 2018 — Bergeron noted that Bones was initially approached about the role before Tyra Banks was ultimately chosen to take over.

Bergeron helmed the popular dance competition series for an extensive 29 seasons, from its inception in 2005 until his exit in 2020. Alongside co-host Erin Andrews, he was let go, prompting a change in the hosting lineup. ABC subsequently appointed Tyra Banks, who maintained that role for three seasons before the current hosting duo of Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough took the reins.

During the podcast, Bergeron clarified the circumstances surrounding his departure, emphasising that he was not the one to leave voluntarily but was instead let go. Bobby Bones, however, recounted that under different circumstances, he had understood he would be stepping in for Bergeron, indicating that the discussions suggested that Bergeron would be departing willingly. Bones had expressed a desire to seek Bergeron’s advice about the transition, but was informed that it was not permissible under contract terms.

Despite the favourable indicators regarding the hosting position, Bones ultimately learned through social media that Banks had signed a contract to become the show’s host. Reflecting on the nature of the entertainment industry, he noted, “It’s fleeting. That industry is so fleeting,” as he recounted the abrupt turn of events.

In their discussion, Bones also touched upon a previous incident that left him feeling hurt. He recalled remarks made by Bergeron, which he found to be somewhat disparaging towards him following his win on “Dancing with the Stars.” Bergeron had expressed surprise at Bones’ victory in a November interview, describing it as “shocking.” This reflection prompted some banter between the two, with Bones humorously querying why Bergeron seemed to harbour ill feelings towards him.

In response to the tension, Bergeron expressed regret for how his comments were perceived. He explained that he had intended to convey surprise rather than shock and acknowledged that he missed an opportunity to clarify his thoughts at the time. Their conversation included playful remarks about needing to repair their friendship, with Bergeron jokingly suggesting that their podcast could be called “Friendship Cleanup on Aisle 2.”

Most recently, Bergeron made a return to the “Dancing with the Stars” stage in November during the show’s 20th anniversary celebration. Welcomed back as an honorary guest judge, he described the experience as emotional and nostalgic. Reflecting on the return, he said he was delighted to witness his friends perform without the pressure of hosting duties.

“It’s so much fun to watch my friends do the work,” Bergeron remarked, expressing contentment at being a spectator rather than a host. He shared a sense of happiness at rejoining the dance community, stating, “I’m just looking forward to being in an environment surrounded by people I really care about on live television, where there’s no second take.”

Bergeron’s reflections on his exit, the brief discussions regarding his potential successor, and his eventual return to the show highlight the intricate dynamics of television hosting and the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. As “Dancing with the Stars” continues to evolve, the memories of Bergeron’s two-decade-long association with the show remain cherished by many fans.