Derek Hough is a well-known American dancer, choreographer, and TV personality. Born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He became famous for winning six Mirrorball Trophies on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS)—the most in the show’s history. He’s also a four-time Emmy Award winner for his creative dance routines.
In 2025, he stayed busy with several exciting projects. He judged on Dancing with the Stars, appeared as a guest judge on Project Runway Season 21, and styled costumes for the film Oh, Hi!. Derek’s inspiring journey, powerful performances, and mentorship have made him a respected figure in the dance world.
Derek Hough Wiki/Bio
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Derek Bruce Hough |
| Date of Birth | May 17, 1985 |
| Age | 40 (as of 2025) |
| Profession | Dancer, Choreographer, Actor, TV Personality |
| Known For | Dancing with the Stars, Symphony of Dance |
| Hometown | Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, London |
| Social Media | Instagram: @derekhough |
Physical Details
| Feature | Description |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Build | Athletic |
Derek Hough Early Life
Derek was born into a creative family in Utah. His parents, Marianne and Bruce Hough, supported him and his siblings in dance and the arts. At age 11, he started ballroom and Latin dance. At 15, he moved to London to study dance at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy, where he trained under top choreographers Shirley and Corky Ballas.
His love for performance and early exposure to stage life helped shape his unique dance style. This passion led him to join Dancing with the Stars in 2007.
Derek Hough Family
| Field | Details |
| Father | Bruce Hough |
| Mother | Marianne Hough |
| Siblings | Julianne, Sharee, Marabeth, Katherine |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Hayley Erbert (m. 2023) |
| Children | None |
Derek married dancer Hayley Erbert in August 2023. The couple has been together since 2015. In late 2023, Hayley faced a serious health scare—a cranial hematoma—but Derek supported her through surgery and recovery. Fans admire their strong bond and often praise them online.
Career Highlights
Derek’s career skyrocketed with his debut on Dancing with the Stars in 2007. He went on to win six Mirrorball trophies, partnering with celebrities like Bindi Irwin and Brooke Burke. His choreography earned him four Emmy Awards, and he became a judge on DWTS in 2020.
Outside of DWTS, he acted in musicals like Singin’ in the Rain and Hairspray Live! and toured with his Symphony of Dance show. In 2025, he styled the movie Oh, Hi! and judged Project Runway Season 21.
Career Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
| Breakthrough | DWTS debut in 2007 (Season 5) |
| Major Wins | 6 Mirrorball Trophies, 4 Emmys |
| Recent Work | Oh, Hi! (2025), Project Runway guest judge |
Derek Hough Net Worth
| Field | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth | $8 million (approx.) |
| Income Sources | Dance shows, TV judging, endorsements |
Derek earns from various sources like dance tours, TV judging, choreography, and product deals. In 2025, projects like Project Runway, Oh, Hi!, and DWTS added to his earnings.
Controversies
In March 2025, Derek took a break from dancing for health reasons, which sparked online speculation. He cleared the air by saying he would continue working as a judge and choreographer.
In 2024, fellow dancer Cheryl Burke called his judging “too soft,” leading to debates online. A 2015 rumor linking him with Kate Hudson was also denied.
Despite minor criticisms, fans continue to support his work and dedication.
Derek Hough Recent Updates
2024
- April: Restarted Symphony of Dance tour with Hayley after her recovery.
- November: Performed an Argentine Tango on DWTS finale with Mark Ballas.
2025
- January: Attended Golden Globes with Hayley. Announced a documentary on her recovery.
- March: Took a health break from dancing. Attended Oscars parties.
- May: Announced as tour director for Ovation Dance (starts December).
- July:
- Guest judge on Project Runway Season 21 and styled Oh, Hi! Costumes
- Derek Hough and Wife Hayley Erbert Are Expecting First Baby Together
