Tyra Banks is in, and Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews are out at Dancing With the Stars.
ABC announced Tuesday the supermodel, actress and entrepreneur has signed on as host and executive producer of the competition series, just one day after the network confirmed Bergeron and Andrews would not return as hosts.
“I’ve been a fan of DWTS since its beginning,” Banks said in a press release. “The fun mixed with raw emotion, seeing celebrities push past their comfort zones, the sizzling dance performances … it’s always transported me to my days of turning it up 10 notches on the catwalk.”
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Bergeron shocked fans when he announced he would no longer be hosting the long-running ballroom dance competition show in a social media post.
“Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me,” the longtime host tweeted on July 13. “It’s been an incredible 15 year run and the most unexpected gift of my career. I’m grateful for that and for the lifelong friendships made.”
Bergeron hosted all 28 seasons of the series from 2005 through 2020, and he appeared on nearly 450 episodes.
Andrews released a separate statement on social media the day after Bergeron.
“Thank you ABC and the entire ‘Dancing With the Stars’ family for 6 memorable seasons,” Andrews tweeted. “Those years wouldn’t have been as special without my loving host Tom Bergeron, the talented dancers, and witty judges. I will always cherish my days on that set, even if I wasn’t the best at walking in heels.”
She was selected to host after competing on the show in 2010.
ABC and BBC Studios said Bergeron and Andrews would be leaving as the series moves in a “new creative direction.”
Banks will work with executive producer-showrunner Andrew Llinares to bring new energy to the show, according to ABC.
“As we gear up for the show’s 29th season, we can’t wait to welcome Tyra Banks to our Dancing stage,” said Karey Burke, president of ABC Entertainment.
“Tyra is an award-winning multi-hyphenate whose fierce female prowess and influence across many industries have made an indelible mark. Her fresh take on America’s favorite dancing competition will surely bring more than a ‘Smize’ to fans everywhere,” Burke added.
Banks co-created and hosted America’s Next Top Model on UPN and The CW from 2003-2015 and in 2018 on VH1. She also hosted the syndicated Tyra Banks Show and NBC’s America’s Got Talent.
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