The two-decade journey of “Dancing With the Stars” has been deeply intertwined with the lives of Julianne and Derek Hough. As the beloved reality competition celebrates its 20th anniversary, the siblings reflect on the show’s profound impact, describing it not just as a workplace but as a fundamental part of their personal growth and a cherished home. Their emotional connection runs deeper than glitz and glamour, touching on life’s most challenging moments.
For Derek Hough, 40, “Dancing With the Stars” has provided unwavering support during immense personal hardship. He tearfully revealed that the program “literally saved my life,” explaining he doesn’t know where he would be without its focus and challenges. This comes after a difficult period for him and his wife, fellow professional dancer Hayley Erbert, 31, who underwent emergency brain surgery for a cranial hematoma in December 2023 and later received a skull implant. The couple, who are expecting their first child, also shared in October that they had experienced a miscarriage.
Julianne Hough, 37, echoes her brother’s sentiments. She describes the ballroom as her “refuge, her home,” where she grew up and developed professionally. Julianne joined the show in spring 2007, dancing for five seasons and winning two Mirrorball trophies. She later returned as a judge for five additional seasons before becoming a co-host alongside Alfonso Ribeiro in 2023.
Derek, who joined in fall 2007, became a professional for 17 seasons, securing a record six trophies before transitioning to a judging role in 2020. He recalls the early days of “DWTS” as the “Wild West,” where a simple stool on stage was considered an event. Now, he notes, productions feature elaborate elements like “an Aztec ruin coming down from the ceiling with a fountain raining on the set,” a testament to the show’s dramatic evolution.
The Hough siblings’ shared journey on “Dancing With the Stars” is unique. They both acknowledge a friendly rivalry, with Julianne joking about her two wins in five seasons compared to Derek’s six in seventeen, giving her a better average. Derek credits Julianne with transforming the show’s trajectory, establishing the model for the multifaceted dancer seen today. Julianne, in turn, expresses immense pride in witnessing Derek become one of the program’s most acclaimed choreographers. The siblings moved from Utah at a young age—Julianne at 10 and Derek at 13—to attend the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London, a shared experience that cemented their bond long before “DWTS.”
Derek emphasizes his personal transformation from a competitive mindset of wanting to win to a philosophy of giving and serving. He learned that the show was not about him, but about teaching and supporting a celebrity’s journey. This approach, he notes, also strengthened his relationship with Julianne, fostering a dynamic of mutual support in an industry that can be intensely demanding.
Fans can celebrate the show’s milestone with a special anniversary episode airing November 11 at 8 PM ET on ABC and Disney+. The special will feature the return of former host Tom Bergeron as a guest judge, adding another layer of nostalgia to the celebration.
Julianne, having experienced roles as a professional dancer, judge, and now co-host, finds joy in her current position. She appreciates watching others shine, though she recently performed the viral “Looking for a Man in Finance” routine, proving she still has her competitive edge. Derek has playfully challenged her to dance again for the 20th anniversary celebration.
The camaraderie among the “DWTS” cast, including hosts, judges, and dancers, is genuine, according to Julianne. She notes that despite external pressures from social media, the cast operates as a supportive family, shielding each other from negativity. This internal unity contributes to the show’s enduring appeal.
Derek believes the show resonates deeply with audiences because it fosters connection through vulnerability. Viewers witness personal transformations, feel involved, and find a sense of shared experience. He remembers early skepticism about the show’s concept, but “Dancing With the Stars” has proven itself to be a unique and irreplaceable cultural phenomenon, providing “heart and stories” that connect generations. Julianne tearfully recounts fans sharing how watching the show together honors deceased loved ones, underscoring its role as a consistent source of joy and a reflection of life’s journey and growth.