Overview
- Bergeron announced on Good Morning America that he will join Bruno Tonioli, Carrie Ann Inaba and Derek Hough as a guest judge for the one-night event.
- This is his first appearance since leaving in 2020 after objecting to the casting of former White House press secretary Sean Spicer.
- The "20th Birthday Party" episode will feature returning pro dancers and a special competitive round that involves past champions.
- Bergeron has characterized the comeback as a nostalgic, limited engagement and noted he had previously said he would not return.
- The anniversary celebration comes during a ratings rebound for Season 34, and some alumni will sit out, with former cohost Brooke Burke saying she will not attend.