‘Dancing With the Stars’: Tyra Banks Replacing Tom Bergeron as Host

Tyra Banks is officially heading to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom. However, she will not compete in Season 29 of the show; she will instead replace Tom Bergeron as host. ABC announced the news late Tuesday night, per The Hollywood Reporter. Banks noted that she is a fan of the competition series and referenced Bergeron’s legacy on the show.

“I’ve been a fan of DWTS since its beginning,” Banks said in the statement. “The fun mixed with raw emotion, seeing celebrities push past their comfort zones, the sizzling dance performances… it’s always transported me to my days of turning it up 10 notches on the catwalk. Tom has set a powerful stage, and I’m excited to continue the legacy and put on my executive producer and hosting hats.”

The news comes just one day after Bergeron broke the story of his ousting to fans via a tweet. He said the show would “be continuing without” him, ending his 15-year stint on the ABC series. The longtime TV personality branded his time on the show as “incredible” and “the most unexpected gift” of his career. He added, “I’m grateful for that and for the lifelong friendships made. That said, now what am I supposed to do with all of these glitter masks?”

ABC also fired Erin Andrews from her position as co-host. The sports broadcaster said she “will always cherish” her time in the ballroom and shouted out Bergeron, the DWTS judges, and the show’s dancers. The network attempted to show their appreciation for the duo in their statement confirmed Banks’ arrival on the program.

“Tom has been an integral part of the ABC family for nearly two decades, from hosting AFV to Dancing with the Stars,” Karey Burke, ABC Entertainment’s president, said. “We are grateful for all he and Erin have done to make Dancing a success. As we gear up for the show’s 29th season, we can’t wait to welcome Tyra Banks to our Dancing stage. Tyra is an award-winning multihyphenate whose fierce female prowess and influence across many industries have made an indelible mark. Her fresh take on America’s favorite dancing competition will surely bring more than a ‘Smize’ to fans everywhere.”

Valerie Bruce, the general manager for show producer BBC Studios’ LA Productions, also lauded Banks in the release. She called the America’s Got Talent and America’s Next Top Model alum “an icon whose powerful presence, trademark confidence, and industry-leading achievements inspire us.” She also reiterated previous statements that Season 29 will see the show go “in a new creative direction.”

Bergeron and Andrews have not commented on Banks’ hiring as of press time. ABC has not announced a premiere date for Dancing With the Stars’ 29th season, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.