Derek Hough

Derek Hough Biography

Derek Hough is an acclaimed American professional Latin and ballroom dancer, choreographer, actor, and singer who rose to fame as a standout performer and later as a judge on “Dancing with the Stars.” Known for his electrifying stage presence and creative choreography, Derek holds a record-breaking six wins on the show, earning him the reputation as one of its most influential figures. Beyond dance, his versatility shines through work in theater, film, and music, making him a familiar face across the entertainment landscape.

Childhood

Derek Hough was born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah, into a family passionate about the arts and performance. He is the fourth of five children and grew up surrounded by siblings, including his well-known sister Julianne Hough. At age 12, Derek’s parents sent him to London to live and train with esteemed ballroom dance coaches Shirley and Corky Ballas, giving him the early foundation for his extraordinary dance career.

Education

In London, Derek received rigorous dance training at the renowned Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. There, he studied various forms of dance, music, and drama, developing a skill set that later distinguished him in the United States and internationally. Under the mentorship of the Ballas family, he gained exposure to elite competitions, clinching prestigious titles such as the IDSF World Youth Latin Champion and the Blackpool U-21 Latin title before he was 20, establishing his name in the global dance community.

Career

Derek’s professional journey started as a competitive dancer in Europe, but he soon expanded into theater, starring in the West End production of “Footloose: The Musical.” He became a household name upon joining “Dancing with the Stars” in 2007. Known for his mastery of multiple dance styles and innovative routines, Derek won the Mirrorball Trophy a record six times with celebrity partners ranging from Brooke Burke to Bindi Irwin. After his tenure as a pro dancer, he returned as a judge on the show, sharing his expertise with new generations of talent. His influence extended to the world stage when he choreographed routines for Olympic gold medalists Meryl Davis and Charlie White. Derek has also acted in film and television, released music, led sold-out dance tours, and published a bestselling memoir.

Family Life

Derek comes from a family with deep ties to music and dance. His younger sister, Julianne Hough, is also a celebrated dancer and actress. Derek married fellow dancer Hayley Erbert in August 2023, and the couple shares an enduring passion for dance and creativity. While the couple does not have children yet, they often collaborate on performances and tours, further cementing their partnership both personally and professionally.

Achievements

Throughout his career, Derek Hough has amassed numerous accolades, including four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography and 14 total nominations. He is the only professional dancer to win six Mirrorball Trophies on “Dancing with the Stars.” His creative influence helped propel stars like Jennifer Grey and Nicole Scherzinger to victory. Derek’s choreography featured at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics for Team USA’s gold-winning ice dancers. In addition to his television work, he’s been recognized for sold-out tours, Broadway and West End roles, and his memoir, which became a New York Times bestseller.

Controversies

Derek Hough has maintained a largely positive public image, avoiding major scandals throughout his career. Occasionally, his relationships and high-profile collaborations have drawn media scrutiny, but Derek has remained focused on his craft and personal growth. Any controversies surrounding him have typically been limited to professional competition outcomes or the nature of his celebrity partnerships, rather than personal missteps or public disputes.

Derek Hough Summary

Derek Hough is a dynamic force in the world of dance and entertainment, celebrated for his talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft. With a foundation built in his youth and a career marked by record-breaking achievements, he continues to inspire both audiences and aspiring performers. His legacy on shows like “Dancing with the Stars,” along with his work on stage and in film, positions him as a defining artist of his generation and a continuing ambassador for dance worldwide.