Tom Bergeron is officially returning to Dancing with the Stars as a guest judge for Season 34, Episode 9. The longtime host, who led the series from its 2005 debut until his departure in 2020, will rejoin the ballroom to help celebrate the show’s 20th birthday. Bergeron’s return was announced on Good Morning America, marking a nostalgic moment for fans who have long missed his signature wit and charm. The episode airs Tuesday, November 11 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and streams the next day on Hulu.
Tom Bergeron will appear as a guest judge on Dancing with the Stars Season 34, Episode 9, airing November 11, 2025. The episode is part of the show’s 20th birthday celebration and will feature Bergeron alongside current hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough. Bergeron was dismissed after Season 28 in 2020, citing creative differences with producers. His return comes after years of fan demand and signals a tribute to the show’s legacy.
Bergeron’s History and Guest Role
- Tenure: Hosted DWTS from 2005 to 2020
- Departure: Fired after Season 28
- Replacement Hosts: Tyra Banks (2020–2022), Alfonso Ribeiro (2022–present), Julianne Hough (co-host since 2023)
- Guest Role: Judge for Season 34, Episode 9
- Episode Theme: DWTS 20th Birthday Celebration
Bergeron previously hinted at a return during Season 34, and his appearance was confirmed by ABC this week.
Reactions: Bergeron’s Comments and Fan Sentiment
“It feels really good. I’m really looking forward to it,” Bergeron told GMA. He praised the current team for bringing DWTS “back to its essence.” Fans on social media expressed excitement, with many calling the return “long overdue.” Bergeron’s dismissal in 2020 was met with backlash, and his reunion with the show is seen as a healing moment for longtime viewers.
Impact Analysis: Legacy and Viewer Engagement
Bergeron’s return is expected to boost ratings and re-engage legacy fans. His presence adds credibility to the anniversary episode and reinforces DWTS’s commitment to honoring its roots. With Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough now leading the show, Bergeron’s guest spot complements the current hosting dynamic and bridges past and present eras.
What’s Next: Episode Details and Future Appearances
- Air Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
- Time: 8 p.m. ET on ABC
- Streaming: Available November 12 on Hulu
- Guest Judge Lineup: Tom Bergeron, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, Derek Hough
- Future Appearances: No confirmation yet, but producers have left the door open
The episode will feature special tributes, archival footage, and performances honoring DWTS’s two-decade legacy.
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