Tom Bergeron’s Joyous Return to the Ballroom...(Tom Bergeron Returning to ‘Dancing With the Stars’ as Guest Judge: ‘It’s My Happy Place’)

Let's make it official: Tom Bergeron is back in the ballroom. The longtime face of Dancing With the Stars will appear as a guest judge during the show's milestone 20th-anniversary season — and he couldn't be more thrilled.

A bit of background

For fifteen years-2005 through 2020-Bergeron was the warm, witty host of DWTS, and helped shape its identity with his sharp comedic timing and gracious manner. In 2020, the show announced that both Bergeron and co-host Erin Andrews would not be returning, citing a "new creative direction."

The change proved divisive among fans, many of whom fondly remembered Bergeron as one of the pillars of the series.

Fast forward to 2025: it's entering its 20th anniversary, and Season 34 of DWTS does so with rejuvenated energy. Bergeron, who has kept in good relations behind the scenes, agreed to step back into the ballroom-this time, not as a host, but as a guest judge.

Why this is special

Guest-judging is modest compared to his original duties of hosting, but to Bergeron — and for the show's legacy — it's deeply meaningful.

Full-circle moment: His return is a reunion of the big name with Dancing With The Stars history and the present one. That just means recognition of the show's roots.

Milestone celebration: The 20th season lends itself to nostalgia and bringing back familiar faces. Bergeron's presence underlines that celebratory tone.

Personal happiness: For Bergeron himself, who has spoken of the ballroom as his “happy place,” this guest-judging role is a way to get back into the space that feels right for him now.

In the interview, he recounted having had a meeting with executive producer Conrad Green — “my good buddy” — and even floated the idea of making his return for one night in some capacity. He said:

“I offered a scenario where I might come back for a night in a certain capacity. The mirrorball is back in their court now.”

That offer has now translated into action — with Bergeron confirmed as a guest judge for a special episode. According to the Wikipedia entry for Season 34, he is set to appear for the “20th Birthday Party” episode.

What to Expect

While specifics about the exact format have not been fully released, a guest-judge appearance from Bergeron will probably include a few key features:

Warm commentary: Although Bergeron is not an expert in ballroom dancing in the strict sense of the word, years of hosting have given him quite a unique insight into contestants' journeys. Heartfelt, human-centered feedback.

Nostalgia for long-time viewers: There will likely be callbacks to memorable seasons and moments from the show's past, a treat for those who have followed since the early days.

A different role on-screen: Unlike his former hosting role, Bergeron will be seated at the judge's table. He may not lead the show, but his function matters: Judging the performances gives him a seat at the heart of the ballroom's energy.

Love for the show: It has been reported that Bergeron referred to the show as "his happy place," and viewers may sense a lighter, joyful energy in his commentary.

Why Bergeron's return matters

Several factors make this more than just a cameo:

Legacy and continuity

Bergeron helped build the DWTS brand from the very earliest years. His return signals that the show values its history even as it evolves. Inviting a former host into their current fold, the dance competition bridges the past and present of DWTS.

Fan sentiment

Many fans voiced how they missed the presence of Bergeron. The news of his return saw people celebrating on forums and threads on Reddit. This character's appearance carries an emotional weight, not for the sake of nostalgia alone, but as a signifier of something appreciated and remembered.

Personal relationships

Bergeron's 2020 professional parting wasn't without tension-he publicly expressed frustration over casting and the show's direction. That he and the producers find common ground now speaks volumes for maturity on all sides. This return isn't a forced reconciliation; it seems a mutually agreeable celebration.

A vote of confidence

For Bergeron, taking on a guest-judge role means he still believes in the show's direction, or at the very least, in becoming part of a meaningful moment within it. For DWTS, welcoming him back signifies respect and willingness to move with its own evolution.

A few caveats

While the return is exciting, a few things need to be put into perspective:

Bergeron is not returning as full-time host. The hosts of Season 34 remain Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough.

As a guest judge, the input he may give would be more symbolic or celebratory rather than deeply technical. Some fans might want more than an appearance, but for now, it is a single-episode role.

The full impact will depend upon how the episode is produced — whether Bergeron is featured in a meaningful way or simply appears briefly.

Bergeron on the show: reflections

Of late, Bergeron has been reflective about his past tenure on DWTS and what it meant to him. He admitted that although his departure was not his choosing, he still retains warmth for the experience:

“I look at the math and 95 percent of my experience was really quite wonderful.” He also posted an Instagram photo with nostalgic humour ahead of Season 34's premiere: “Best wishes to the Dancing With the Stars gang for this milestone season premiere next week. Here's a tip from my years hosting: pre-show office naps help conserve energy.” These actions show someone comfortable in his legacy, open to return, and excited for this particular moment. What it means for the viewer If you're a long-time viewer of DWTS, Bergeron's guest appearance offers a few things to look forward to: A welcome cameo from a familiar face you might have missed, bringing some warmth and continuity into the ballroom. A special moment that connects the show's early years to its present-especially meaningful in the 20th-anniversary context. Possibly a deeper emotional layer to the episode: because Bergeron is returning not out of obligation, but out of genuine goodwill and fondness. A chance to relive the magic that made the show pop: celebrity ambition combined with professional dance shine and charismatic hosting, this time reflected through a well-loved figure's perspective. Final thoughts Tom Bergeron's guest judging on DWTS could be brief, but the occurrence is important. It is not all about nostalgia; it's about giving kudos to how far the journey has been, valuing those who helped build it, and celebrating a milestone with care. For Bergeron, it's a return to a place he calls his "happy place"; for the show and its fans, it's an emotional homecoming. So when the camera cuts to the judge's table and Bergeron shows up - probably crisp in his suit, badge of "host-turned-judge" shining subtly - remember: It's a moment of connection. Between past and present. Between host and show. Between him and that ballroom. For many fans worldwide, it's also a joyful reminder that some places, once loved, can welcome you back.