Tom Bergeron’s long-awaited return to “Dancing With the Stars” turned into an emotional moment both on and off the ballroom floor. After stepping back into the spotlight as a guest judge for the show’s 20th Birthday Party episode, the beloved former host took to social media to thank fans for their overwhelming support and grew teary-eyed as he reflected on the heartfelt response to his comeback.
Getting Choked Up
After delighting fans with his return to the ballroom last night on “Dancing With the Stars” season 34, Bergeron took to his Instagram account and shared a message of gratitude.
He captioned the video, “Sometimes even I’m at a loss for words. Thank you all SO much 🥰.”
In the video, Tom says, “Remarkably, I’m not hungover from the after party.” Bergeron does admit to being a bit hoarse as he takes a sip of his coffee.
He continued, “I just wanted to take a second to thank all of you because the social media reaction…” Bergeron then paused, saying he was getting choked up. He whispered, “Thank you,” as he gave the camera a wave while crying.
All Love For the Former ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Host
Fans of “Dancing With the Stars” have longed for the return of Bergeron to the show. While it was a one-night return, fans flooded social media to show their support and gratitude to him.
One fan wrote, “Literally started sobbing when you walked in! ❤️,” while another user added, “I hope they find a way to bring you back, incorporate you into the show in a way that you would enjoy…… You being there is just right. The joy that you bring is invaluable ❤️.”
The love continued, as one person wrote, “Tom, my family was cheering and clapping for you when you walked out last night and I’m sure America was as well! We love you! ❤️”
A fourth Instagram user commented, “We LOVE you Tom! It was so great having you back. Let’s make this a permanent thing! ❤️”
Love From the ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Family
It wasn’t just the fans showing love to Bergeron. Many members of the “DWTS” family showed up in his comments to show their support and love for him.
Former pro, judge, and current co-host Julianne Hough wrote, “Your presence was everything! Love you so much Tom ❤️.”
OG judge Carrie Ann Inaba wrote, “You were brilliant last night and it felt like home with you there.❤️”
Season 4 winner Apolo Anton Ohno also made a return to the ballroom, performing with Jordan Chiles for her relay dance. Apollo wrote, “Such a special night Tom! Your energy, humor, voice, and energy have been with the show every season ❤️❤️❤️❤️.”
Finally, season 19 winner and current co-host Alfonso Ribeiro commented, “We loved and will cherish every second of you being back in the ballroom. For me personally it meant the world to me to be able to spend so much quality time with you.”
Of course, Bergeron hosted “Dancing With the Stars” for 28 seasons before he was fired in 2020. He was then replaced by Tyra Banks, who served as the host for three seasons. Ribeiro was brought in during season 31. He now co-hosts along with Julianne Hough, who started co-hosting in 2023.
“Dancing With the Stars” season 34 airs live on Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, and streams the next day on Hulu.
It was great seeing Tom Bergeron. It was like he never left and he never missed a beat. He was welcomed with open arms. I have watched DWTS since day one and he has been my favorite. I really enjoyed seeing him back. I hope to see more of him.
Tom brought grace to the show; along with his own style of subtle humor. Alfonso is a buffoon! While I’m certain Alfonso has to stick to the script written for him, a star of his stature should have enough input to prevent the writing team from making him look so silly. Just my humble opinion. While of course none of us know the full story, TPTB were wrong to let Tom go and should do anything to bring him back. He elevates the entertainment value of the show immensely.🌼🌼