The split between ABC and Tom Bergeron in “Dancing with the Stars” was a surprise to the lifelong host, a representative confirmed to Fox News.
The “DWTS” community was shocked Monday when Bergeron took to Twitter to announce that he will not be back to host the competition’s show. He has held the position since his debut in 2005. At the time, the host’s statement did not make clear how the decision was reached. However, in a statement provided to Fox News, a representative for the 65-year-old comedian explained that the move was ultimately the network’s call.
“ABC chose not to choose Tom’s option. In the good tradition of Hollywood cliches, they are “going in a different direction,” the statement says.
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It appears that ABC did not agree to renew Bergeron’s contract in favor of moving the program in an undisclosed direction.
Tom Bergeron will not return to ‘Dancing with the Stars’.
(ABC)
In a joint statement by ABC and BBC obtained by Fox News, the networks assure that “Bergeron will always be part of the ‘Dancing with the stars’ family”.
“As we embark on a new creative direction, he leaves the program with our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for his characteristic wit and charm that helped make this program a success,” the statement said.
Additionally, ABC and BBC confirmed that co-host Erin Andrews, 42, would not be returning as well.
“Erin will not be returning either and we appreciate all that she brought to the ballroom,” the statement said. Fans have supported her since she originally competed as a contestant in 2010, and her sense of humor has become a hallmark of the show. “
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ABC did not choose to renew Tom Bergeron’s contract with ‘Dancing with the Stars’.
(Getty)
Andrews ‘representatives did not immediately respond to Fox News’ request for comment, but she went to Instagram on Tuesday with her own confirmation of her departure.
“Thank you ABC and the entire Dancing with the Stars family for 6 memorable seasons,” he wrote. “Those years would not have been so special without my beloved host Tom Bergeron, the talented dancers, and the resourceful judges,” Andrews wrote. “I will always appreciate my days on set, even if I wasn’t the best walking in heels.”
In his initial tweet, Bergeron seemed to subtly hint that the decision was not his, writing that he was “only informed” of the decision.
“I just reported that @DancingABC will continue without me,” he wrote Monday. “It has been an incredible 15 years and the most unexpected gift of my career. I am grateful for that and for the lifelong friendships made. With that said, what am I supposed to do with all these glitter masks?
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So far, there is no information on who will replace the hosts, if any. As with all Hollywood productions right now, things are a bit uncertain, as shows that usually shoot with a live studio audience, like “DWTS”, are forced to find new production solutions to the light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
