Why Did Tom Bergeron Really Leave Dancing With the Stars? Inside the Shocking Firing That Changed the Show Forever

Tom Bergeron’s departure from Dancing With the Stars stunned fans around the world. After nearly 15 years as host, he was suddenly dismissed in 2020 — a decision that marked the end of an era for the hit ABC competition. So, why did Tom Bergeron leave Dancing With the Stars? Here’s the real story behind his unexpected exit and what he’s said since.

Bergeron, a television veteran beloved for his calm humor and professionalism, became the face of DWTS since its debut in 2005. His chemistry with contestants and judges helped the series reach massive success. But after 28 seasons, ABC and Disney decided to “move in a new creative direction,” replacing him and co-host Erin Andrews with Tyra Banks. The sudden change left many viewers wondering what went wrong behind the scenes.

The Real Reason Tom Bergeron Left Dancing With the Stars

When the news broke in July 2020, Bergeron confirmed on social media that his time on DWTS had come to an end. “Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me,” he wrote. “It’s been an incredible 15-year run and the most unexpected gift of my career.” ABC later issued a statement calling the move a step toward “a new creative direction.”

Behind the scenes, however, tensions had reportedly been growing. Bergeron later revealed that he had clashed with producers over the show’s casting decisions — particularly in 2019, when they brought on former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. Bergeron said he had urged the team to avoid political figures to keep the show “a joyful escape,” but his request was ignored. “I thought we had agreed to steer clear of divisive bookings,” he later said in an interview.

When the network refused to change course, Bergeron offered to step away for a season. Instead, he was quietly let go the following year. Producers like Andrew Llinares said at the time that the show needed to “evolve” after nearly two decades, but many fans saw Bergeron’s exit as a mistake that changed the tone of the series forever.

Fans Still Miss Bergeron’s Presence on DWTS

Following his departure, Dancing With the Stars underwent several major changes. Tyra Banks hosted for three seasons before leaving in 2023, and the show transitioned to streaming on Disney+. Viewers often commented that the series lost some of its warmth without Bergeron’s humor and balanced style.

In a 2021 interview, Bergeron admitted that by the end, DWTS was “not the show I loved.” He described feeling that the format had changed too much and that the energy behind the scenes was different from the fun, family-friendly environment it once had. Still, he expressed no bitterness, saying he was grateful for the memories and proud of the show’s early years.

In 2025, Bergeron is set to return briefly as a guest judge for the show’s 20th-anniversary episode — his first appearance since his exit. He emphasized that he wouldn’t have come back under the old management, hinting that the creative environment has since improved.

Tom Bergeron’s exit from Dancing With the Stars ended a golden chapter in television history. His professionalism and charm set a standard that remains unmatched, and his short return this year will remind viewers why he remains the heart of the ballroom.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Tom Bergeron leave Dancing With the Stars?

He was dismissed in 2020 after disagreements with producers and the network’s decision to take the show in a new creative direction.

Q2: Who replaced Tom Bergeron as host?

Tyra Banks took over hosting duties beginning with Season 29, later joined by Alfonso Ribeiro.

Q3: Did Tom Bergeron disagree with DWTS casting decisions?

Yes. He opposed the inclusion of political figures like Sean Spicer, arguing it clashed with the show’s family-oriented appeal.

Q4: Is Tom Bergeron returning to the show?

Yes. He will return as a guest judge for the 20th-anniversary special in 2025.

Q5: How long did Tom Bergeron host Dancing With the Stars?

He hosted the series for nearly 15 years, from 2005 to 2020, across 28 seasons.