“Dancing With the Stars” fans everywhere felt disheartened and greatly disappointed when beloved host Tom Bergeron left the series after season 28. Although he had disagreements with production, he maintained close friendships with many of the cast and crew.
Now, a “Dancing With the Stars” crew member has presented Tom with a wonderful gift, thanking him for all his years and dedication to the show.
Learn more about the gift and hear what the former host had to say.
Tom Bergeron Shows Off His Precious Gift
“DWTS” viewers felt delighted to see Tom Bergeron return to the ballroom for a guest appearance last season. In honor of the show’s 20th anniversary, the show invited the man who helped make the show a smashing success.
This week, Tom revealed he received an amazing gift to remember his time on the show.
“Five months ago, I had an incredible time returning for the 20th anniversary of @dancingwiththestars,” the former host shared on Instagram. “Today at lunch, the show’s Production Designer, my Emmy-award winning friend @j.r.yarnell, had a sweet, shiny surprise for me.”
“So I just got back from lunch with my buddy James Yarnell, the Emmy-winning production designer. We’ve known each other since 1998 when he was production designer for my version of ‘Hollywood Squares,'” Tom shared in the video.
He went on to describe how the pair met up for lunch. Yarnell, who is also the production designer for “Dancing With the Stars,” brought along a large box and asked Tom to guess what was inside.
“First thing that came to mind was Bruno Tonioli’s portable bronzer. Or Carrie Ann Inaba’s smelling salts. You know, because it takes a village. But here’s what it was,” Tom continued, revealing a beautiful Mirrorball trophy. “How about that? And I only had to dance once in 2006. Thank you, buddy, appreciate it. Very cool.”
The official “Dancing With the Stars” official Instagram account noted the gift was “stunning.”
“This makes me so so happy 🏆🪩 love you @tombergeron” pro dancer Emma Slater gushed in the comments. Many other fans and friends left kind words for Tom.
The Former Host Maintains an Active Social Life
Tom Bergeron might not return as a permanent host, but “DWTS” fans love keeping up with his latest adventures. The host recently spent time with his friend, actor William Shatner, as they celebrated his 95th birthday.
Viewers probably won’t see William Shatner enter the ballroom, but it seems like he’s trying to recruit his friends. On X, he tapped his friend, actor Henry Winkler, to join “DWTS.”
Winkler quickly declined, but most fans admit they’d love to see him compete.
Fans can expect to see “Dancing With the Stars” return to ABC this fall.
