Fired ‘DWTS’ Host Tom Bergeron Reveals Why He Finally Returned After His 2020 Exit

Tom Bergeron has opened up about his shocking 2020 firing from Dancing With the Stars and the real reason he agreed to return for the show’s 20th anniversary episode on November 11. The beloved former host, who fronted the ABC series for 15 years, said the show’s creative direction and leadership changes finally convinced him to come back to the ballroom.

In a new interview, Bergeron said he had no intention of returning unless the right people were running the show. Now that longtime showrunner Conrad Green has returned, the veteran TV personality says he’s at peace and excited to celebrate the milestone season.

Tom Bergeron Reflects on His Firing and the Show’s Turnaround

Tom Bergeron didn’t hold back when discussing his abrupt 2020 firing, describing it as something that “pissed me off.” The host told The Hollywood Reporter that his issues stemmed from what he called dishonesty within the show’s previous leadership. “I did not like being lied to,” Bergeron said. “When that showrunner got fired, I posted, ‘Karma is a b—ch.’”

His anger largely traced back to the controversial casting of former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer in 2019. Bergeron revealed he had advised producers not to include any politically connected figures during an election year, hoping the show would remain a lighthearted escape. But when his request was ignored, tension grew between Bergeron and the production team.

After 15 years of hosting, Bergeron’s exit was announced ahead of the show’s 29th season. “Just informed Dancing With the Stars will be continuing without me,” he wrote on social media in July 2020. “It’s been an incredible run and the most unexpected gift of my career.”

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Why He Agreed to Return for the 20th Anniversary

Five years later, Bergeron said the only reason he’s returning is because Conrad Green—who originally developed the show’s U.S. version and served as showrunner through season 27—has returned to lead it. “I couldn’t be happier that the people who are running the show now are running the show,” Bergeron said. “The 20th anniversary, in other people’s hands, would not have lured me back.”

He praised Green’s influence on the show’s revival, calling Dancing With the Stars a “resurgent hit” again. “You can tell the difference,” Bergeron noted. “They’ve been on a ratings tear. You’re more likely to see a zebra playing the piano than see a 20-year-old show doing what they’re doing right now.”

Bergeron will return as a guest judge for the special anniversary broadcast, marking his first on-air appearance since leaving the franchise in 2020. The milestone episode also features past pros and hosts, including Kym Johnson and Cheryl Burke, making it a full-circle reunion for fans who grew up with the series.

What His Return Means for Fans and the Franchise

Fans have long viewed Bergeron as the face of Dancing With the Stars, known for his humor, professionalism, and steady presence through live mishaps and celebrity drama. His comeback is seen as a symbolic moment that connects the show’s legacy with its modern era.

With the series celebrating two decades on air, Bergeron’s return could also help reinforce trust among longtime viewers who were frustrated by his firing. “It’s poetic that I get to come back when the energy of the show feels right again,” Bergeron reportedly said in closing.

Bergeron’s reappearance marks both a personal and professional full circle—proof that time, new leadership, and the right creative vision can bring even the most complicated dance partnerships back into sync.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why was Tom Bergeron fired from Dancing With the Stars?

He was dismissed in 2020 after creative disagreements with producers over the show’s direction and politically charged casting decisions.

Q2: Who is running Dancing With the Stars now?

Original showrunner Conrad Green returned to lead the series starting with season 31, overseeing its renewed success.

Q3: When will Tom Bergeron return to DWTS?

He returns as a guest judge for the 20th anniversary episode airing November 11, 2025.

Q4: How long did Tom Bergeron host Dancing With the Stars?

He hosted for 15 seasons, from 2005 to 2020, becoming one of the most recognized faces on ABC.

Q5: Could Tom Bergeron return full-time to DWTS?

He has not confirmed any permanent return but hinted he is open to special appearances under the current leadership.