Tom Bergeron is making a big, emotional comeback to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom — but not in the way most fans expected. According to recent reports, the longtime host will return as a guest judge on the show’s special 20th anniversary episode airing November 11, 2025. TVLine+2Good Morning America+2
A Surprise Return After a Painful Goodbye
Bergeron, who hosted DWTS from its very beginning in 2005 until 2019, hasn’t been seen on the show since his shock exit in 2020. Radio Pacific Inc Back then, he and co-host Erin Andrews left under tense circumstances, citing creative differences — especially over the casting of political figures, including controversial names like Sean Spicer. Cosmopolitan
Why Now? A Friendly Olive Branch
So what brought him back? It seems old friendships played a big part. Bergeron praised Conrad Green, his first-ever showrunner, who is now back at the helm of DWTS. mensjournal.com+1 In interviews, Bergeron revealed that Green reached out to him, extending what he called an “olive branch.” TVLine
Bergeron also acknowledged how the show has evolved: he believes it’s gotten “back to its essence” and praised its ongoing success. EntertainmentNow+1
What to Expect on the 20th Anniversary Episode
On November 11, Bergeron will join the judging panel alongside Carrie Ann Inaba, Derek Hough, and Bruno Tonioli. People.com+2Radio Pacific Inc+2
When asked how he plans to judge, he joked that he won’t focus too much on technicalities. Instead, he’ll use his signature style: looking for performances that move him, make him laugh, or give him goosebumps. michaelfairmantv.com
Reflecting on his return, Bergeron said he’s excited and nostalgic: his time on DWTS was “my happy place,” full of warm memories. EW.com+1
What This Means for DWTS and Fans
- Fan Moment: Bergeron’s comeback comes just as the show celebrates its 20-year journey, making it a deeply sentimental moment for long-time viewers.
- Full Circle: His return signals a reconnection with the show’s roots — especially in collaboration with former team members like Green.
- A New Role, Not a Full Return: Although fans have joked about him coming back as a full-time host, Bergeron’s current role is more limited and celebratory.
Tom Bergeron’s reappearance is a big deal — not just for nostalgia, but as a symbolic bridge between DWTS’ past and present. His unique judging style could bring something fresh to the 20th anniversary special, and for many viewers, it’s a long-awaited homecoming.