Derek Hough Biography details the life of an American professional Latin and ballroom dancer, choreographer, actor, singer, and television personality born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Derek Hough rose to global prominence as a six-time champion on the ABC dance competition series Dancing with the Stars. The dancer’s expertise in competitive ballroom and Latin styles established a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry through award-winning choreography and television judging roles.
Demographic Data and Core Attributes of Derek Hough
Derek Hough was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, and holds the zodiac sign of Taurus. The professional dancer completed formal training at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. This educational background provided the technical foundation necessary for Derek Hough to compete at the highest levels of international dance competitions.
Derek Hough is 41 years old. The dancer operates within the field of professional dance, specifically focusing on Latin and ballroom disciplines. Derek Hough’s career spans performance, choreography, acting, singing, and television presenting, making the individual a multifaceted figure in the entertainment sector.
Professional Career and Dancer History of Derek Hough
Derek Hough began the professional journey with a significant early achievement in competitive dance. In 2002, Derek Hough was named the IDSF World Youth Latin Champion. This title marked the beginning of a distinguished competitive career and demonstrated early mastery of Latin dance styles on the international stage.
From 2007 to 2016, Derek Hough served as a professional dancer on the ABC dance competition series Dancing with the Stars. During this nine-year tenure, Derek Hough won the show a record-breaking six times with various celebrity partners. These victories solidified Derek Hough’s status as one of the most successful professionals in the history of the franchise.
In 2010, Derek Hough appeared in Chery Cole’s music video for the song “Parachute.” This appearance showcased the dancer’s versatility beyond the competitive stage and into the realm of music video performance. The role highlighted Derek Hough’s ability to integrate dance with visual storytelling in commercial media.
In 2016, Derek Hough joined the judges’ panel on NBC’s World of Dance. The dancer took on the role of evaluating aspiring talent alongside other industry professionals. This transition expanded Derek Hough’s influence from a competitor to a gatekeeper of new dance talent in the television industry.
Beginning with the 29th season, Derek Hough returned to Dancing with the Stars as a judge. This move allowed Derek Hough to evaluate the next generation of professional dancers on the same platform where the career began. The judging role represents a full-circle moment in the professional trajectory of the dancer.
Family, Brand, and Organization Connections of Derek Hough
Derek Hough maintains significant familial ties within the dance and music industries. These connections have shaped the public perception of the family as a collective force in American entertainment. The following relationships detail the verified associations of the dancer.
- Julianne Hough: Serves as the sister of Derek Hough and is also a fellow dancer and champion on Dancing with the Stars.
- Riker Lynch: Is a cousin of Derek Hough and a member of the musical group R5.
- Rocky Lynch: Is a cousin of Derek Hough and a member of the musical group R5.
- Ross Lynch: Is a cousin of Derek Hough and a member of the musical group R5.
- Rydel Lynch: Is a cousin of Derek Hough and a member of the musical group R5.
- Hayley Erbert: Dated the dancer since 2015, announced the engagement in June 2022, and married Derek Hough in August 2023.
- Everley Capri Hough: Is the daughter of Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert, born in December 2025.
- Jennifer Lopez: Served as a judge alongside Derek Hough on NBC’s World of Dance.
Awards, Rankings, and Achievements of Derek Hough
Derek Hough has received extensive recognition for choreographic excellence on the television stage. The dancer’s work on Dancing with the Stars resulted in multiple accolades from the television industry. These awards reflect the high standard of artistic execution and technical precision displayed by the professional dancer.
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography: Derek Hough won this award four times.
- Primetime Emmy Nominations: Derek Hough received a total of 14 nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Choreography.
Frequently Asked Questions About Derek Hough
How old is Derek Hough?
Derek Hough is 41 years old.
Where was Derek Hough born?
Derek Hough was born in Salt Lake City, Utah.
What education did Derek Hough receive?
Derek Hough attended the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts.
Who is Derek Hough’s sister?
Julianne Hough is the sister of Derek Hough and a fellow dancer.
When did Derek Hough win World Youth Latin?
Derek Hough was named IDSF World Youth Latin Champion in 2002.