The hosts of Dancing With the Stars have become as much a part of the show’s identity as the Mirrorball Trophy itself. Over the years, there have been changes in who guides viewers through the glitz and glamour of the ballroom. The replacement of long-time Dancing With the Stars host Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews with Tyra Banks in 2020 was a significant moment, but the show has seen a number of personalities take on this important role throughout its history.
Tom Bergeron was the face of DWTS for a remarkable 28 seasons, from its debut in 2005 until 2019. His wit and charm were constants, even as co-hosts came and went. Before Erin Andrews joined him in season 18 in 2014, Bergeron shared the stage with several other talented individuals. The Bergeron-Andrews partnership became particularly beloved by fans over their 11 seasons together, making their eventual departure a major surprise to many viewers.
Erin Andrews, in a November 2021 interview with Us Weekly, reflected on her and Bergeron’s exit with grace. She described it as “a blessing in disguise,” acknowledging that the show was moving in “a different direction.” This change marked a new chapter in the history of Dancing With the Stars hosts.
Banks took over as host in 2020, and in 2022, she was joined by Alfonso Ribeiro. Banks’ tenure concluded after season 31, paving the way for Julianne Hough to step into the co-hosting role in season 32. Let’s take a closer look at all the personalities who have graced the DWTS stage as hosts.
Tom Bergeron and Tyra Banks, former Dancing With the Stars hosts, pictured together.
Tom Bergeron: The Original Dancing With the Stars Host
Tom Bergeron, a Massachusetts native, was the mainstay Dancing With the Stars host from the show’s inception in 2005 to 2019. His sharp humor and warm presence made him a fan favorite and a steady hand at the helm of the competition. Bergeron’s departure before season 29 in 2020 signaled a significant shift for the show.
Tom Bergeron smiling in a suit, during his time as Dancing With the Stars host.
Lisa Canning: Season 1 Co-Host
Lisa Canning holds the distinction of being Tom Bergeron’s first co-host. She joined him for the inaugural season of DWTS in 2005, setting the stage for the show’s future success.
Lisa Canning, the first co-host of Dancing With the Stars, posing on the red carpet.
Samantha Harris: Bergeron’s Long-Term Co-Host
Samantha Harris took over co-hosting duties from season 2 through season 9, working alongside Tom Bergeron from 2005 to 2009. Her background as a Next Joe Millionaire hostess brought a familiar face to reality TV fans.
Samantha Harris, former Dancing With the Stars co-host, in a sparkly dress.
Drew Lachey: A Temporary Host
In season 5 of Dancing With the Stars in 2007, 98 Degrees singer Drew Lachey stepped in to temporarily replace Samantha Harris while she was on maternity leave. Lachey, a former DWTS champion himself (season 2 winner), offered a unique perspective as Dancing With the Stars host.
Drew Lachey, who temporarily hosted Dancing With the Stars, pictured on stage.
Brooke Burke: From Contestant to Co-Host
Brooke Burke, already part of the DWTS family as the season 7 winner with Derek Hough, transitioned to co-host from seasons 10 through 17 (2010-2013). Her experience as a past champion gave her a special connection with the contestants and the show’s format.
Brooke Burke, former Dancing With the Stars co-host, smiling in a ballroom setting.
Erin Andrews: Beloved Co-Host Alongside Bergeron
Sports commentator Erin Andrews joined Dancing With the Stars in season 18 in 2014 and remained co-host through season 28. Her chemistry with Tom Bergeron was undeniable, and they became a popular hosting duo. Andrews and Bergeron were both let go from ABC in July 2020, marking the end of an era for Dancing With the Stars host pairings.
Erin Andrews, former Dancing With the Stars co-host, posing in a sparkly dress on stage.
Leah Remini: Filling In For Andrews
Actress Leah Remini stepped in for Erin Andrews on three separate occasions. She hosted one episode in season 19 and two episodes in season 21 while Andrews was covering the World Series in 2014 and 2015.
Leah Remini, who filled in as Dancing With the Stars co-host, at an event.
Alfonso Ribeiro: From Winner to Co-Host
Alfonso Ribeiro, known for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and his season 19 DWTS win with Witney Carson, also filled in for Tom Bergeron in week four of season 21. In a full-circle moment, Ribeiro officially returned as Dancing With the Stars host as a co-host alongside Tyra Banks in 2022 for season 31, and continued co-hosting with Julianne Hough.
Alfonso Ribeiro, current Dancing With the Stars co-host, smiling on the DWTS stage.
Tyra Banks: Solo and Co-Host
Tyra Banks, known for America’s Next Top Model, took over as the solo Dancing With the Stars host for season 29 in 2020. She also served as an executive producer during her first season. Banks co-hosted season 31 with Alfonso Ribeiro before announcing her departure in March 2023.
Tyra Banks, former Dancing With the Stars host, posing in a glamorous dress.
Julianne Hough: The New Era of DWTS Hosting
Julianne Hough, a former DWTS professional dancer and two-time Mirrorball champion (seasons 4 and 5), was announced as Tyra Banks’ replacement for season 32. Her deep history with the show and enthusiastic personality are expected to bring a fresh energy to the Dancing With the Stars host role as the show continues to evolve.
Julianne Hough, the current Dancing With the Stars co-host, smiling brightly.
From Tom Bergeron’s long reign to the exciting new partnership of Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, the hosts of Dancing With the Stars have played a vital role in the show’s enduring appeal. Each host has brought their unique style and personality to the ballroom, contributing to the magic of DWTS.
