Alfonso Ribeiro Steps into the Spotlight on Dancing With the Stars
Alfonso Ribeiro, known for his charismatic presence on and off the dance floor, is about to embark on a new journey on Dancing With the Stars, with the full support of his former co-host, Tyra Banks.
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly on September 13, the 51-year-old Ribeiro shared his excitement and Banks’ encouragement. He mentioned that Tyra Banks was thrilled for him and willingly stepped down from her hosting duties, making way for him to take on a more prominent role.
Ribeiro couldn’t have been happier, describing Banks’ support as “nothing but love” and affirming that he was born for this role. It’s a significant change after Banks, 49, hosted the show for nearly three years, stepping in during the 2020 season to replace Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews as the hosts.
Tyra Banks’ Evolution from Model to TV Host
Tyra Banks, initially renowned as a supermodel, later gained prominence as a TV host. Her journey in the entertainment industry took off when she launched America’s Next Top Model in May 2003, where she served as both host and mentor.
In March, when her departure was announced, Banks explained her decision to shift focus from the dance floor to the stock market floor. She expressed her desire to concentrate on her business ventures and entrepreneurship, emphasizing that her heart and soul were deeply invested in her business and TV production.
She mentioned, “I’m really focused on business, like, crazy, crazy focused on business. … I think it’s time to graduate from the dance floor to the stock market floor. Mic drop.”
Banks is excited about creating things rather than just hosting them in the future, teasing upcoming projects.
A New Era: Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough Take the Helm
Following Banks’ departure, it was revealed that Julianne Hough would be taking over the role of co-host alongside Alfonso Ribeiro.
Ribeiro expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the fantastic connection he shares with Hough. He anticipates a great partnership and an infusion of positive energy. This season, Ribeiro will take on the role previously held by Tom Bergeron, allowing him to interact with contestants right after their performances, while Hough will handle matters from the DWTS skybox.
Ribeiro stated, “It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be really awesome to be standing next to them,” alluding to the contestants.
Great Expectations for a Star-Studded Season
Ribeiro has high hopes for the upcoming season of Dancing With the Stars, which boasts a star-studded cast, including Mauricio Umansky, Ariana Madix, and Jamie Lynn Spears, among others.
He shared his excitement for the season ahead, emphasizing the show’s heart, love, and soul. Ribeiro expressed, “This is a great cast, and the energy is going to be amazing, and I think the heart and the love and the soul of the show will be there for this season, and I’m excited.”
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a memorable season of Dancing With the Stars, scheduled to air on ABC and Disney+ on Tuesday, September 26, at 8 p.m. ET.