In a stunning and emotional announcement, Dancing With the Stars veteran Bruno Tonioli has revealed that he will be stepping away from the show after one of the most turbulent seasons of his career. “I have been accused and defamed — I will be leaving DWTS next season,” he declared, confirming what many fans feared but few expected to hear so soon.
The longtime judge, known for his fiery personality and animated critiques, admitted that the constant backlash and accusations of bias have taken a heavy toll on his mental health. “I’ve given my heart to this show for years,” Bruno said candidly. “But lately, it feels like no matter what I do, it’s never enough.”
Tonioli’s exit follows weeks of growing tension within the fandom and among industry insiders, with some alleging that he had unfairly scored or “sabotaged” certain contestants. While no official investigation was launched, the accusations spread rapidly online, sparking fierce debate and casting a shadow over one of television’s most beloved competitions.
Behind the scenes, sources say Bruno has been struggling with the intensity of the criticism and the pressures that come with judging a show that millions scrutinize each week. “He’s been deeply hurt,” one insider shared. “People forget that judges are human too. Bruno’s always been passionate — but passion can be misunderstood.”
His announcement immediately sent shockwaves through the DWTS community. Fans flooded social media with emotional tributes, expressing heartbreak over the loss of a figure many have grown to love since the show’s debut. “The ballroom won’t be the same without Bruno,” one viewer wrote. “He brought life, laughter, and energy that no one else could.”
Others, however, view his departure as an opportunity for change, arguing that the judging panel needs a fresh dynamic after years of controversy and shifting audience expectations. “It’s time for a new chapter,” another fan commented. “The show must evolve — even if it means saying goodbye to a legend.”
ABC has yet to issue an official statement, but insiders say the network is preparing for a major reshuffle ahead of next season. Rumors are already swirling about who might replace Tonioli, with several former champions and guest judges being floated as possibilities.
For Bruno, though, the decision appears final. “I will always love this show and the people who made it what it is,” he said. “But I need to protect my peace and rediscover the joy that dance once brought me.”
As fans look back on his two decades of laughter, passion, and theatrical flair, one thing is certain — Bruno Tonioli’s absence will leave a void in the ballroom that no amount of glitter or glam can replace.
