Tyra Banks has been named the new solo host of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars as well as an executive producer of the show.
What We Know:
- According to Banks, she has been a fan of the show since it was created in 2013. She says its “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.” She took to Twitter the excitement of her new role and announced her plans for the upcoming season during an interview with ABC’s Good Morning America.
- During the interview, Banks also hinted, not confirming or denying that Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases was asked to compete on the show. She says, “I don’t know if he would do this right now. But I can imagine, once we have our cure for COVID-19, once we have our vaccine, I don’t know, he might have to come on and do a little cha-cha-cha to celebrate.”
- The news of Banks joining as host came a day after Tom Bergeron announced that he will not be returning as host of the show for its upcoming 29th season. Bergeron has hosted the show since it debuted in 2005. Banks will be replacing Bergeron and Erin Andrews as hosts making her the solo host. Bergeron took to Twitter to express his farewell to the show while Andrews’ representatives were not quick to respond to Fox News’ request for comment.
Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me. 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. That said, now what am I supposed to do with all of these glitter masks?
— Tom Bergeron (@Tom_Bergeron) July 13, 2020
- A statement from the show’s producers say, “Bergeron will forever be part of the ‘Dancing with the Stars’ family. As we embark on a new creative direction, he departs the show with our sincerest thanks and gratitude for his trademark wit and charm that helped make this show a success.”
Banks got her start modeling as a teen and landed covers on almost every fashion magazine. She signed a contract with CoverGirl and became a Victoria’s Secret Angel. Banks started her own production company and produced her hit series, ‘America’s Next Top Model.’
