Same. I've been playing this on and off for years and preferred it to most of my other app games until now. It impedes the ability to max three stars, especially on the companion levels, which makes it an absolute NO for me. :(
This same mode appeared in my game yesterday with no option to turn it off. I hate it so much, I googled what it was and created an account here just to also voice how much I dislike it and want it either removed or a toggle put in place. I will discontinue playing until this is resolved.