2005: 'Dancing with the Stars' Debuts
On this day in 2005, ABC debuted Dancing with the Stars.
The popular dance competition series, which just completed its 16th season, pairs various celebrities with dance professionals. The show features a weekly elimination format which is determined by scores provided by professional judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli, and the viewing audience.
Tom Bergeron has served as host since the show's debut. His co-hosts have included Lisa Canning, Samantha Harris, Drew Lachey, Brooke Burke Charvet, and current co-host, and former DWTS finalist, Erin Andrews. Lachey and Burke Charvet are previous DWTS champions.
Actress Kelly Monaco and her professional partner Alec Mazo were the show's first champions. Subsequent celebrity champions have included Emmitt Smith, Apolo Anton Ohno, Kristi Yamaguchi, Donny Osmond, Jennifer Grey, Hines Ward, Olympic Gold Medalist Meryl Davis, Alfonso Ribeiro, and Rumer Willis.