Derek Hough | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 09, 2025

Who is Derek Hough?

Derek Hough, born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah, rose to fame as one of the most celebrated professional dancers on the popular television show "Dancing With the Stars." He made his debut in 2007 and became known for his remarkable choreography and performance skills, winning an impressive six Mirror Ball trophies during his time on the show. Hough's extensive background in ballroom and Latin dance was honed in London at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, where he refined his craft alongside his sister, Julianne Hough. Throughout his career, he has consistently captivated audiences with his talent and charisma.

In addition to his success on "Dancing With the Stars," Hough is a two-time Emmy Award-winning choreographer, having garnered recognition for his innovative routines on the show. He has also ventured into acting, appearing in productions like "Nashville" and the film "Make Your Move." Beyond television and film, Hough has pursued a music career and collaborated on various projects, further showcasing his artistic versatility. A New York Times bestselling author, Hough published his memoir, "Taking the Lead: Lessons from a Life in Motion," in 2014, providing insights into his inspiring journey and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Early Life and Education

Derek Hough was born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and grew up in a family steeped in dance. Raised alongside his three older sisters and younger sister Julianne, he was influenced by his parents, Mari Anne and Bruce Hough, who met on a college ballroom dance team. The family's strong connection to dance created an environment that nurtured Derek’s passion and skills in ballroom and Latin dancing from a young age. Despite facing bullying during his childhood, Hough persevered and fully immersed himself in dance, which would later become the cornerstone of his successful career.

At the age of 13, Derek and Julianne Hough moved to London to attend the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, seeking a more intensive training environment. Living with fellow dancer Mark Ballas' family, the siblings further honed their dance techniques and showcased their talents at various performances. This pivotal move not only enhanced their skills but also provided an escape during their parents' divorce. By the time he turned 18, Derek had already achieved significant accolades, becoming the Latin world champion, and this solidified his path in the world of dance, setting the stage for his future successes.

Career Beginnings on Dancing With the Stars

Derek Hough made his debut as a professional dancer on the hit reality show "Dancing With the Stars" in 2007, starting with Season 5. Joining his sister, Julianne Hough, who was already a pro dancer on the show, Derek quickly established himself as a formidable talent. His responsibilities extended beyond simply dancing; he was also tasked with choreographing captivating routines for his celebrity partners. Hough's remarkable skills and creativity shone through on the dance floor, leading him to win an unprecedented six Mirror Ball trophies by the time of his departure from the show in 2016.

During his tenure on "Dancing With the Stars," Hough became known for his versatility in various dance styles, including the rumba, tango, and jive. He showcased his choreography in each season, earning multiple Emmy nominations for his outstanding work. His wins came with a diverse array of partners, ranging from actresses like Jennifer Grey and Brooke Burke to pop stars such as Nicole Scherzinger and Bindi Irwin. Hough’s ability to connect with his partners and elevate their performances not only garnered him critical acclaim but also endeared him to a loyal fan base, marking him as one of the standout figures in the show's history.

Success and Achievements in Dance

Derek Hough is widely recognized as a powerhouse in the dance industry, having earned significant accolades for his versatility and creativity. He made his breakthrough as a professional dancer on ABC's hit show , where he participated in several seasons from 2007 to 2016. During his time on the show, Hough partnered with numerous celebrities, winning an impressive six Mirror Ball trophies, a record that solidified his reputation as one of the most successful dancers in the series' history. His innovative choreography earned him two Emmy Awards, recognizing his exceptional talent and contribution to the art of dance.

Hough's illustrious career extends beyond television. Trained in ballroom and Latin dance since childhood, he was crowned the Latin world champion by the age of 18. His rigorous training came from attending the prestigious in London, where he honed his skills. In addition to his competitive success, Hough's choreography also played a vital role in the achievements of ice dancers Meryl Davis and Charlie White, whose gold medal-winning routine at the 2014 Sochi Olympics was choreographed by him. Through all these accomplishments, Derek Hough continues to inspire dancers and enthusiasts around the world with his talent and dedication to the craft of dance.

Television and Film Appearances

Derek Hough's career extends beyond the dance floor, as he has made significant contributions to both television and film. He began his acting journey in England, where he appeared as a background character in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," portraying a student from Ravenclaw. This opportunity opened the door for Hough to pursue acting more seriously. In 2014, he starred in the dance-centric film "Make Your Move," which featured a romance between two dancers from different worlds, showcasing not just his dance skills but also his ability to lead a film.

Television has been a significant platform for Hough, particularly through his role as a professional dancer and choreographer on "Dancing With the Stars." His participation on the show led to him winning multiple Emmy Awards for his choreography, further solidifying his reputation in the industry. He has also appeared in dramatic roles, such as his guest spot on "Nashville," where he captivated audiences as a character intertwined with the show's lead. Hough's versatility was highlighted in "Hairspray Live!" where he not only showcased his dancing talent but also his vocal skills, portraying Corny Collins in the live musical production.

Music Career and Contributions

Derek Hough has established himself not only as a leading dancer and choreographer but also as a multifaceted musician. His foray into music began with the formation of the Ballas Hough Band alongside his longtime friend, Mark Ballas. The duo's musical endeavors showcased Hough's versatility, blending dance and music seamlessly. Hough also directed the music video for Michael Bublé's uplifting song "I Believe In You," further emphasizing his creative talents. Additionally, Hough showcased his dance prowess in the video "The Arena," partnering with violinist Lindsey Stirling, which underscored his ability to blend different performing arts.

One of Hough's most notable contributions to music is the heartfelt song "Hold On," originally inspired by a friend's struggles. Following the tragic suicide of Linkin Park's Chester Bennington, Hough re-recorded the song, transforming it into a poignant message about mental health awareness. The updated version was released on November 1, 2017, and aimed to encourage individuals—particularly men—to open up about their feelings and seek help when needed. This initiative highlights Hough's desire to use his platform for awareness and brings attention to critical issues surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. Furthermore, his cover of Breaking Benjamin's "Ashes of Eden" after undergoing vocal cord surgery demonstrates his dedication to his craft and the resilience he embodies as an artist.

Personal Life: Dating and Relationships

Derek Hough has navigated a colorful romantic history amid his successful dance career. His first notable relationship was with actress Shannon Elizabeth, his partner on "Dancing With the Stars," which blossomed into a year-long romance that ended in 2009. In 2011, he briefly dated designer Lauren Conrad, although this connection lasted only a few months. Hough has also been linked to several high-profile names, including actresses Nina Dobrev and Nikki Reed, as well as British singer Cheryl Cole, reflecting his status as one of Hollywood's prominent bachelors.

Since 2015, Hough has been in a committed relationship with Hayley Erbert, who is also a dancer on "Dancing With the Stars." The couple has enjoyed a public romance, often showcasing their relationship on social media and attending various events together. In July 2017, they made headlines when Erbert accompanied Hough to the wedding of his sister, Julianne Hough, to Brooks Laich, indicating the depth and seriousness of their relationship. Together, they continue to support each other's careers in the performing arts while maintaining a strong bond of love and companionship.

Net Worth and Earnings: Salary Insights

Derek Hough has established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, particularly through his long tenure on "Dancing With the Stars." Over the years, Hough's net worth has grown significantly, largely due to his successful dancing career, choreography, television appearances, and even his music endeavors. Reports suggest that as of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $4 million, making him one of the wealthier personalities in the dancing world. His income sources vary, including his salary from television shows, live performances, and partnerships with various brands.

Hough's earnings peaked during his time on "Dancing With the Stars," where he reportedly earned between $200,000 and $300,000 per season. In addition to this, his multiple Emmy Awards for choreography further solidified his status and added to his income. Hough has also explored ventures outside of dancing, such as acting roles in films and television series, concerts, and his involvement in Broadway productions. This diverse portfolio of work not only showcases his broad range of talents but also contributes substantially to his overall financial success.