Insider Secret: Behind the Scenes of Tom Bergeron's Controversial 'DWTS' Departure and the Shocking Truth about Sean Spicer's Casting
Tom Bergeron expresses deep frustration over the controversial casting of Sean Spicer on 'Dancing With the Stars' in 2019, discussing his anger and disappointment with the decision
Tom Bergeron is now revealing when he realized his tenure on Dancing With the Stars was about to conclude, prior to his official removal. In 2019, at the age of 68, Bergeron aimed to create a "fantastic getaway" from political discussions within the ballroom dance competition. Thus, he felt discontented when Sean Spicer became part of the season 28 cast.
"At the close of 2018, it became apparent that there would be no spring season of DWTS in 2019, which was a first. During a recent episode of Cheryl Burke's podcast, 'Sex, Lies and Spray Tans,' Bergeron shared his recollection of the events leading to his departure on Monday, October 23. Following a hiatus of almost a year, Bergeron had a meeting with the showrunners of DWTS to discuss the future. He suggested that they should refrain from casting anyone affiliated with any political party in anticipation of the 2020 election year. He emphasized the importance of avoiding controversies related to partisan politics."
Bergeron, however, continued by stating that the executives exhibited a lack of attentiveness.
Several weeks following the initial gathering, Bergeron disclosed that they contacted him to disclose the selected individuals for the cast, one of whom was identified as "the former press guy for [former President Donald] Trump" - referencing Spicer, aged 52.
Sean Spicer and Lindsay Arnold on ‘Dancing With The Stars’ ABC/Eric McCandless
Bergeron expressed his frustration, stating, "Guys, this goes against what we agreed upon. If they had mentioned Hilary Clinton, I would have reacted the same way ... Let's not even go there." He emphasized that it was not the appropriate time and suggested focusing on the show's strengths instead. Bergeron, who has received an Emmy award, described himself as "furious" about the decision in casting and even requested to "sit out the season." In response, the showrunners proposed releasing Bergeron from his contract.
They felt extremely passionate about it," he mentioned, expressing his strong frustration with the situation.
Once Bergeron's anger flared up, he aimed to make it clear that he had been deceived. Thus, he released a social media statement denouncing the casting of Spicer without directly referring to him.
Sean Spicer David Livingston/Getty Images
"In a now-deleted post, Bergeron affirmed that producers, alongside the network, hold the authority to make decisions that they believe will benefit the franchise in the long run. Although we may have differing opinions, Bergeron acknowledged that ultimately it is their decision to make.
Subsequently, Bergeron realized that it was most likely his final season due to feeling betrayed by their actions. He recollected his thoughts, contemplating how he could retaliate after feeling mistreated."
Bergeron believed it was his responsibility to inform the audience that, in his opinion, the casting choice crossed a line. "And just to clarify - if it had been a Democrat, my stance would have been the same," he stated on Monday.
Since its creation in 2005, Bergeron has been the host of DWTS. Throughout the years, he was joined by cohosts such as Lisa Canning, Samantha Harris, Brooke Burke-Charvet, and Erin Andrews.
Tom Bergeron on ‘Dancing With The Stars’. ABC/Kelsey McNeal
He and Andrews, both 45 years old, were released from DWTS in July 2020. Later that year, Tyra Banks took over as the sole host for two seasons until Alfonso Ribeiro joined her in 2022. In March, Banks, who is now 49, confirmed that she would not be returning for season 32. Currently, Ribeiro is co-hosting DWTS with Julianne Hough. Bergeron, speaking on Monday's podcast episode, expressed his certainty that the executives would provide a different explanation for his termination and firmly stated that he would never return to the show.
"It's a completely different show. The world has transformed," he stated. "There's no purpose. What would be the point of proving anything? ... Let the show thrive with the new talent it currently possesses, or gracefully come to an end."
