‘Dancing With The Stars’ Dropped From ABC, Moving To Disney+ Following Low Ratings & Backlash Over Tyra Banks Hosting
‘Dancing With The Stars’ Dropped By ABC, Moving To Disney+ Following Low Ratings & Backlash Over Tyra Banks Hosting
After 30 seasons, “Dancing With The Stars” is getting a new home.
Following consecutive seasons of low viewership, reports say that executives of the dance competition felt it was time to switch things up to ensure the shows survival.
Disney Media and Entertainment chairman Kareem Daniel issued a statement, exclaiming Disney+ is honored to receive the series. The staple ABC show has been renewed for two seasons on Disney+. It will be the first ever live series on the streaming platform. Via press release, Kareem Daniel stated:
“We are excited to bring this beloved show exclusively to Disney+ as the platform’s first-ever live series…The show’s broad appeal, as well as the overwhelming popularity of its Disney-themed competition nights, make Disney+ the perfect home for ‘Dancing with the Stars’ while continuing to expand our demographic reach.”
The change over to streaming comes after the show has struggled to maintain and reach [new] viewers. Some fans took issue with supermodel Tyra Banks, who joined as the series host at the start of season 29. There was even a petition to remove her from the show on change.org that collected over 14,000 signatures.
During her first season hosting, the 48-year-old announced the wrong bottom two couples during elimination. According to Tyra, the mistake was the result of a botched cue card. Other complaints include the America’s Next Top Model’s host flamboyant outfits. Viewers claim they often overshadow the contestants.
However, Disney partners that will produce the live streaming show are optimistic about the future of “DWS”. Valerie Bruce, the General Manager of BBC Studio’s Los Angeles production arm, had this to say:
“This unprecedented move, combined with our two-season pick-up, is a testament to the proven power of ‘Dancing with the Stars….And [it’s] a resounding vote of confidence from our great, supportive partners at Disney, showing how much they value and believe in the brand.”
According to reports, executives at “DWS” may be looking for an additional host to join Tyra in hosting. Sources say they’re looking at Kylie Jenner, Tracee Ellis Ross, Anthony Anderson, and Rupaul among a few other big names to join the shows roster.
[VIA]
Do you tune in to Dancing With The Stars? Who would you like to see co-host alongside Tyra? Leave your answers in the comments!