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Tom Bergeron's Impactful Return to the Ballroom
On November 11, 2025, in a heartfelt moment during the 20th birthday celebration of Dancing With the Stars, Tom Bergeron marked his return to the ballroom with poignant remarks that resonated deeply with both contestants and fans alike.
Having been absent from the show since his unexpected firing in 2020, Bergeron used his time as a guest judge not merely to critique the performances of Alix Earle and Robert Irwin but to address ABC directly. "This show is setting ratings records again, so next season bring back the results show. Let the whole country vote. Let everybody vote,” he urged, as the audience responded with enthusiastic cheers.
The Case for a Results Show
For longtime fans of the program, Bergeron’s plea is a clarion call for a bygone era that many still cherish. The former two-episode format allowed for performances one night, followed by the results the next, granting viewers a larger voting window and a fuller participation experience nationwide. Bergeron lamented, "I always mourned the loss of that Tuesday show. I thought it made the voting more fair across the country..." This sentiment taps into a broader frustration shared by many fans who feel that the current format limits engagement, especially for those on the West Coast.
Why Fans Miss the Old Format
The previous structure of Dancing With the Stars offered a mix of suspense, excitement, and community participation, drawing viewers into a weekly tradition. The results show felt more like an event unto itself, often showcasing guest performances and behind-the-scenes content. As Bergeron articulated, it was more than just a simple elimination; it created a festive, varied atmosphere that many believe can enhance the viewer experience.
Bergeron’s Journey Since Leaving the Show
Since being let go, Bergeron has remained vocal about his love for Dancing With the Stars. In recent interviews, he expressed gratitude for the new leadership under executive producer Conrad Green, who helped orchestrate his return. Bergeron’s initial dismissal stemmed from his resistance to the show's political casting choices, specifically the inclusion of Sean Spicer, which he viewed as a departure from its family-friendly roots.
Reflecting on his time away, he mentioned, "It pissed me off,” illuminating that his absence was bittersweet, marked by frustration but also a deep affection for the show and its community. His re-entry proves that while the dynamics of production may shift, the soul of the show still resonates with those who helped build it.
The Current Season: New Beginnings and Familiar Faces
This year's season has also seen the return of former cast favorites, including Robert Irwin, who follows in the footsteps of his sister, Bindi. Bergeron has fond memories of watching Bindi compete years earlier, and the chance to see a new generation of contestants adds an emotional layer to the anniversary episode.
As the show celebrates its longevity and re-establishes itself in popular culture, it finds new footing with fresh talent and a variety of contestants. Bergeron himself acknowledges this shift, noting, “They’re casting influencers and people who, when I was there, would have been, like: 'Really? Okay.' But it’s working.” This evolution illustrates how the show adapts to changes in audience demographics and the influence of social media.
Final Thoughts: A Community Celebration
The reunion of Bergeron with Dancing With the Stars culminates in a celebration not just of performances, but of community and connection. Fans who grew up with the show or joined later continue to cherish the camaraderie and joy it brings to their living rooms each week. Bergeron’s request for a return of the results show seems to echo a collective desire for a more inclusive and participatory experience, a sentiment that keeps the spirit of the show alive.
As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see if ABC heeds Bergeron’s call and reintegrates the popular results format. Until then, the legacy of Dancing With the Stars, infused with Bergeron’s playful yet poignant demeanor, remains securely in the hearts of its fans.
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