DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Admits She Misses Seeing Tom & Erin on the Show since Their Exit

The “The Talk” co-host recently opened up about her feelings about the replacement of the former “DWTS” co-hosts by model Tyra Banks, and she discussed what the latter brought into the series.

52-year-old TV personality and actress Carrie Ann Inaba is best known for her longtime work as a judge on the dance competition series “Dancing With The Stars,” which she currently alternates with being a co-host on “The Talk.”

Recently, Inaba took some time from her busy schedule to have a conversation with TV Insider, on which it was inevitable for her to address the departure of former DWTS co-hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews.

Back in July, the series’ showrunners shocked the public with the announcement that Bergeron and Andrews were not going to return to their hosting duties for Season 29, later sharing that they were going to be replaced by Tyra Banks.

Fresh after taping the October 12 episode of DWTS, Inaba commented about this controversial change, which has caused mixed reactions among the show’s massive audience.

October 12’s episode was dedicated to the ‘80s night theme, and Inaba seriously embraced the vintage look for the night.

“I miss seeing Tom and Erin, of course, because we’re like family. [But] I do think Tyra’s brought really amazing energy,” Inaba he told the news outlet. "[Tyra’s] done an amazing job and has taken it in her own direction," she added.

Although Inaba can see why the sudden move has been controversial, she is thankful for a much-needed change after so many seasons, and she described Banks as being “inspiring” for her.

Inaba not only praised Banks for the excitement and passion she brings into the equation but also complimented the host for adding extra glamour to the entire mix.

Moreover, Inaba also gives her full support to Banks because the latter’s situation on DWTS reminds the former of how she felt and how the public reacted when Inaba stepped in to replace Julie Chen on “The Talk” in 2019.

“That’s probably why I have so much compassion for what Tyra’s going through because I joined The Talk during a very tumultuous time,” Inaba told US Weekly.

ROCKING A VINTAGE LOOK

October 12’s episode was dedicated to the ‘80s night theme, and Inaba seriously embraced the vintage look for the night, taking to her Instagram account the next day to share an image of her outfit and overall appearance for the occasion.

“Did someone say 80’s? Let’s go!!!!” Inaba captioned the snapshot that pictured her sitting by some equipment backstage at the TV set as she poses in a purple minidress by Alexandre Vauthier.

Inaba also revealed in the caption that her red high-heeled sandals were by Enrico Cuini, and she completed the period look by donning a platinum blond wig with details in blue and pink and wore heavy makeup.