Philippine Daily Inquirer

Tyra Banks waltzing in as new ‘Dancing With the Stars’ host

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LOS ANGELES—TYRA Banks will be showing off her moves as solo host of ABC’S “Dancing With the Stars.”

The supermodel, actor and businesswo­man who cocreated “America’s Next Top Model” will replace longtime host Tom Bergeron and take on the role of executive producer, ABC said late Tuesday.

In a statement, Banks said she’s a fan of the contest’s approach of “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.”

Banks lauded Bergeron, host of the show since its 2005 debut, as having set “a powerful stage” and said she’s excited to continue the legacy.

Cohost Erin Andrews also is leaving the series, which is getting a “creative refresh” while honoring America’s affection for it, ABC said. Andrews was not expected to be replaced.

Whether the show will get to unveil its new approach in season No. 29 remains clouded by the pandemic-caused production halt affecting the return of most TV series.

Last year, Bergeron drew attention when he expressed concern over the show’s decision to include former White House press secretary Sean Spicer among the contestant­s for last fall’s season.

Bergeron tweeted then that he had suggested to producers the new season be a “joyful respite from our exhausting political climate” and urged them to avoid “divisive bookings.”

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Tyra Banks

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