The reality dance competition show Dancing With the Stars has captivated audiences for years, not only with its dazzling performances but also with its charismatic hosts. While the show has seen its share of celebrity contestants and professional dancers, the hosts have been the consistent faces guiding viewers through each season. The decision to change hosts has sometimes created buzz, as was the case when Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews were replaced by Tyra Banks in 2020. However, this wasn’t the first hosting shakeup in the show’s history.
Tom Bergeron was the اصلی host of DWTS from its inception in 2005 until 2019, spanning an impressive 28 seasons. His wit and charm became synonymous with the show. Initially, Bergeron had co-hosts, and while his partnership with Erin Andrews, who joined in season 18 in 2014, became particularly beloved, the hosting role has seen a variety of personalities grace the stage. Bergeron and Andrews’ exit after 11 seasons together surprised many viewers, but as Andrews mentioned in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly in November 2021, it allowed the show to explore “a different direction.”
Following Bergeron and Andrews’ departure, Tyra Banks took the reins, later joined by Alfonso Ribeiro in 2022. Banks hosted for a few seasons before Julianne Hough stepped in for season 32, marking yet another chapter in the show’s hosting history. Let’s take a closer look at all the Dancing With the Stars hosts who have graced our screens over the years.
Tom Bergeron: The Face of DWTS for Many Seasons
Tom Bergeron is arguably the most recognizable face associated with Dancing With the Stars hosting. This Massachusetts native was with the show from the very beginning, in 2005, and continued to host until 2019. His tenure spanned seasons 1 through 28, making him a constant presence for both viewers and contestants. Fans loved Bergeron’s humor, his smooth transitions, and his ability to handle live television with ease. His departure before season 29 in 2020 marked a significant shift for the show.
Lisa Canning: The First Co-Host of Dancing With the Stars
Lisa Canning holds the distinction of being Tom Bergeron’s very first co-host on Dancing With the Stars. She was part of the inaugural season in 2005. While her time on the show was brief, she played a role in setting the stage for what would become a long-running hit.
Samantha Harris: A Familiar Face Beside Bergeron
Samantha Harris became a familiar face to DWTS viewers as she co-hosted alongside Tom Bergeron for a significant period. Joining in season 2, she remained with the show through season 9, from 2005 to 2009. Her background as a hostess on Next Joe Millionaire and her on-screen chemistry with Bergeron made her a popular co-host during her time.
Drew Lachey: Stepping In as Guest Host
Drew Lachey, known from the band 98 Degrees, had a unique experience with Dancing With the Stars hosting. While Samantha Harris was on maternity leave during season 5 in 2007, Lachey temporarily stepped in as co-host. Interestingly, Lachey was also a former DWTS champion, having won season 2, bringing a unique perspective to the hosting role.
Brooke Burke: From Contestant to Co-Host
Brooke Burke, known for her role as a producer on Hidden Heroes and her previous win on Dancing With the Stars season 7 with Derek Hough, transitioned from contestant to co-host. She took over the co-hosting duties from season 10 through season 17, spanning from 2010 to 2013. Her prior experience as a contestant gave her a special connection with the participants and the show’s format.
Erin Andrews: A Long-Standing Partnership with Bergeron
Erin Andrews, a well-known sports commentator, joined Dancing With the Stars as co-host in season 18 in 2014. Her partnership with Tom Bergeron lasted for 11 seasons and became a fan favorite. Their on-screen rapport and comfortable dynamic made them a beloved hosting duo. Andrews remained in her role until season 28, departing alongside Bergeron in July 2020.
Leah Remini: Stepping in for Andrews
Leah Remini, known for her role in King of Queens, had a few guest hosting appearances on Dancing With the Stars. She filled in for Erin Andrews on three separate occasions. Remini co-hosted one episode during season 19 and two episodes in season 21 while Andrews was covering the World Series in 2014 and 2015.
Alfonso Ribeiro: From Winner to Co-Host
Alfonso Ribeiro, famous for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, also has a history with DWTS as a winner of season 19 with partner Witney Carson. He also stepped in to co-host for one week in season 21 when Tom Bergeron was absent. In a full-circle moment, Ribeiro officially returned as a co-host in July 2022 for season 31, joining Tyra Banks.
Tyra Banks: Solo Host and Co-Host
Tyra Banks, the creator of America’s Next Top Model, took on the role of solo host for Dancing With the Stars starting in season 29 in 2020. She also served as an executive producer during her first season. With the show’s move to Disney+, Banks returned as a co-host alongside Alfonso Ribeiro for season 31. However, she announced her departure in March 2023.
Julianne Hough: The Newest Host
Julianne Hough, a former professional dancer and two-time mirrorball champion on DWTS, is the newest addition to the list of Dancing With the Stars hosts. Confirmed to be taking over from Tyra Banks for season 32, Hough brings her deep connection to the show back to the ballroom. Her enthusiasm for the role was evident in her statement to Variety in March 2023, expressing her excitement to rejoin the show and share the experience with fans.
The hosts of Dancing With the Stars have played a crucial role in the show’s success and longevity. From Tom Bergeron’s long and memorable tenure to the fresh energy of Julianne Hough, each host has brought their unique personality and style to the ballroom, contributing to the DWTS legacy.
