Let’s take a peek behind the curtain of Dancing With the Stars. Contrary to what you might imagine, the backstage drama isn’t as chaotic as you’d expect. Hosts Erin Andrews and Tom Bergeron aren’t just colleagues—they’re genuinely good friends. In fact, Erin has described Tom as a “lovable and caring friend,” proving that their on-screen chemistry extends far beyond the studio lights.

“Tom’s not just a dear friend; he’s the reason I even have this job,” Erin exclusively told Closer Weekly while promoting her new NFL apparel line, WEAR by Erin Andrews. “I’m incredibly thankful to him for bringing me into this world.”

Uncensored Dress Rehearsal @tombergeron @dancingabc 💃🕺 #actnatural #uncensored
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A post shared by Erin Andrews (@erinandrews) on Sep 16, 2019 at 11:08pm PDT

But it’s not all serious business between these two. Erin went on to explain, “Tom has this sharp, dry, sarcastic sense of humor that really clicks with mine. It’s like we’re two peas in a pod. But beneath that wit, he’s truly a warm and caring friend. We crack jokes, and sometimes those jokes can get pretty raunchy during script reads and rehearsals. It’s all in good fun, though. We have an incredible time together, and it’s one of the reasons I love this job so much.”

Erin and Tom: A Partnership Built to Last

Erin joined Dancing With the Stars in 2012, pairing up with Tom, who had been hosting since the show’s debut in 2005. Over the years, their bond has only grown stronger. Erin admitted that if Tom were ever to leave, the show just wouldn’t be the same.

“Think of the show as a well-oiled machine, and Tom is the engine that keeps it running smoothly,” she explained. “He’s the quarterback, the face, and the heart of the show. Honestly, it’s his show, and I’m just along for the ride, doing whatever he needs to keep things moving forward.”

How cool is this @tombergeron ??? The “Tom and Erin” of @dancingcr came by for a visit! Awesome meeting @shirleyalvarezcr @randallvargas
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A post shared by Erin Andrews (@erinandrews) on May 14, 2018 at 1:37pm PDT

Tom’s Perspective: Working with Erin and Watching the Show Evolve

Tom feels just as fortunate to have Erin as a co-host. “I love working with smart, funny people, and Erin fits that bill perfectly,” he said. Beyond their dynamic partnership, Tom also marvels at how much the show has evolved since its early days.

“When I first started, I thought this would be a little summer series—a quick six-week filler show. But look at where we are now! This show has grown into something far bigger than I ever imagined,” he reflected. “Just check out the set we have today and the incredible production values they bring to life every single week on a live broadcast. It’s mind-blowing.”

Season 28 and Beyond

As Dancing With the Stars enters its 28th season, the show continues to thrive thanks in large part to the chemistry between Erin and Tom. Their friendship and mutual respect keep fans tuning in week after week. And who knows? Maybe there’s still more magic left in store for this iconic duo.

Reporting by Diana Cooper