Erin Andrews Says Her DWTS Firing Came as a Surprise
Former "Dancing With The Stars" host, Erin Andrews revealed that her firing came as a surprise to her, in a recent interview with Extra's Jehn Lahmers.
For 15 years and 28 seasons on ABC, DWTS had Tom Bergeron, the primary host, alongside Erin Andrews, co-hosting since Season 18.
However, the duo was fired from the long-running competition series as the producers aim to take things in a new direction for the next season.
Erin Andrews poses at "Dancing with the Stars" Season 28 Finale at CBS Television City | Photo: Getty Images
It became clear, after several media posts, that Tom and Erin didn't leave the show by choice. Tom took to Twitter to announce that the show would proceed without him.
Meanwhile, in a recent interview with Extra's Jehn Lahmers, Erin expressed shock over her dismissal. The American Sportscaster said:
"It was a surprise. I got a phone call, I answered the call. I was like this is not good."
The 42-year-old television personality disclosed that she had been keeping in touch with Tom, 65, and the entire dance crew. Erin said she texts Tom every week as well as the dancers.
Several reactions have followed Tom and Erin's departure; Sasha posted a picture of the two hosts on Instagram, penning an emotional tribute to the duo.
Tyra Banks would replace Tom and Erin as the new host.
While speaking about Erin and Tom's firing ahead of the 29th seasons, the producers expressed their appreciation to the duo, saying they would forever and always be part of the DWTS family.
The producers added that their departure was not due to poor performance or lack of exciting interaction with the contestants or fans.
In the meantime, ABC sources have ascertained that former America's Next Top Model host, Tyra Banks, would replace Tom and Erin as the new host for "Dance With The Stars."
In the interview with Extra, Erin revealed how happy she was for Banks, 46, who had been announced as the new host for the show. Erin said:
"She can nail the smizing, and the walking in gowns and heels feels so perfect for her."
Peta Murgatroyd, 34, an American professional dancer, said she was shocked and sad when she heard of Erin's departure while speaking with Christina Garibaldi, an Us Weekly correspondent.
The New Zealand-born dancer said she was happy for Banks and wants to see what she will bring to the show. Banks will be the first solo host employed by ABC network, who is both black and female.