Tom Bergeron Takes the Plunge: Hosting "Dancing With Sharks" for Shark Week 2025
Get ready for a television event unlike any other! Tom Bergeron, the beloved former host of "Dancing With the Stars," is making a splashy return to the world of dance competition, but with a decidedly aquatic twist. Warner Bros. Discovery networks have announced that Bergeron, the Emmy-winning personality who just turned 70, will be hosting "Dancing With Sharks," a spectacular special premiering as part of Discovery Channel’s highly anticipated Shark Week 2025.
The announcement, made during the recent New York City upfront presentations for advertisers, has sent waves of excitement through both the dance and shark enthusiast communities. After a period of relative absence from the spotlight following his departure from "Dancing With the Stars" in 2020, Bergeron’s return promises to be a uniquely entertaining and captivating experience.
"Dancing With Sharks" isn’t just another spin-off; it’s a completely reimagined concept that combines the elegance and artistry of dance with the raw power and mystique of the ocean’s apex predators. According to a company release, the show will feature "the ultimate underwater thrill…an unprecedented dance competition between expert divers and their shark partners." Yes, you read that right: divers and sharks, partnered together in a choreographed routine, vying for the coveted title of "Dancing With Sharks" champion.
Fans of "Dancing With the Stars" will recognize familiar elements within this aquatic adaptation. Just like its ballroom counterpart, "Dancing With Sharks" will emphasize professional choreography and skillful execution. However, the training process will be unlike anything seen before. Instead of ballroom instructors, the divers will receive guidance from a "world-class underwater choreographer," ensuring that the routines are not only visually stunning but also safe and respectful of the marine environment.
The specific dance styles remain shrouded in mystery, but the announcement offered a tantalizing glimpse with the mention of signature moves like the "Hammerhead Hoedown" and the "Tiger Trot." These creative names suggest that the choreography will incorporate elements of both traditional dance and the unique movements of different shark species. One can only imagine the intricacies of a waltz performed alongside a graceful whale shark or the energy of a tango executed with a nimble reef shark.
Each diver and shark partnership will have just one chance to impress the judges and the viewing audience. The pressure will be immense as they strive to synchronize their movements, showcase their underwater agility, and connect with their aquatic partners in a meaningful way. It remains to be seen who the judges will be, but one can expect a panel of experts with backgrounds in marine biology, dance, and perhaps even competitive diving.
The announcement of "Dancing With Sharks" has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, particularly given the circumstances surrounding Bergeron’s departure from "Dancing With the Stars." The 2020 decision to replace the original host after 28 seasons sparked a wave of disappointment and protest from loyal viewers. Many felt that Bergeron’s wit, charm, and genuine connection with the contestants were integral to the show’s success.
Bergeron himself addressed his return to hosting with his characteristic humor and enthusiasm. In an Instagram video, he sported sunglasses and flashed a toothy smile as the iconic "Jaws" theme played in the background. "Yup, it’s happening," Bergeron wrote. "See you this summer. It will be fintastic." His playful tone and clever wordplay perfectly captured the spirit of the new show, promising a blend of entertainment and aquatic adventure.
The upcoming Shark Week 2025 is already shaping up to be an unforgettable event, and "Dancing With Sharks" is poised to be its centerpiece. The combination of Bergeron’s hosting prowess, the innovative dance competition format, and the captivating presence of sharks promises to draw in a massive audience.
Beyond the entertainment value, "Dancing With Sharks" also presents a unique opportunity to raise awareness about shark conservation. By showcasing the beauty, intelligence, and diversity of these magnificent creatures, the show has the potential to dispel common misconceptions and foster a greater appreciation for their role in the marine ecosystem.
The specifics of the show remain under wraps. Further details about the professional divers, the shark species involved, the judges, and the underwater choreography are expected to be released in the coming months. In the meantime, anticipation continues to build for this extraordinary television event.
As Tom Bergeron himself would say, get ready to dive into "Dancing With Sharks" – it’s going to be fintastic!
