Derek Hough

Derek Hough is a name that has become synonymous with dance. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the best dancers and choreographers in the entertainment world. From his time on "Dancing with the Stars" to his work as a judge, actor, and musician, Hough has worn many hats and worn them well. His charming personality, incredible talent, and dedication to his craft have made him a household name.

This article will explore Derek Hough’s life, career, and contributions to the world of dance and entertainment.

Early Life and Dance Journey

Derek Hough was born on May 17, 1985, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to parents Marianne and Bruce Hough. Derek comes from a family deeply rooted in the arts. He has four sisters, one of whom, Julianne Hough, is also a professional dancer and actress. The Hough family was very supportive of their children’s interests in music, dance, and performance. Growing up, Derek was encouraged to follow his passion for dancing.

When Derek was just 12 years old, he moved to London with his sister Julianne to train under the guidance of Corky and Shirley Ballas, two world-renowned dance coaches. This move was a significant step in shaping his dance career. In London, Derek trained in ballroom and Latin dance styles, and he also studied various other forms of dance, including jazz, ballet, and tap. This extensive training allowed him to develop versatility as a dancer.

During his time in the UK, Derek also attended the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, where he honed his skills in acting and singing. His time in London helped build a strong foundation, and by his late teens, Derek was already making waves in the competitive dance world.

"Dancing with the Stars" and Rise to Fame

Derek Hough's big break came in 2007 when he joined the cast of "Dancing with the Stars," a popular reality TV competition where celebrities are paired with professional dancers to compete in ballroom dancing. Derek quickly became a fan favorite due to his charismatic presence and impeccable dance skills.

Over the course of his career on "Dancing with the Stars," Derek won the Mirrorball Trophy a record-breaking six times, more than any other professional dancer on the show. His partnerships with stars like Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Grey, Bindi Irwin, and Amber Riley led to some of the most memorable performances in the show’s history.

Derek was known not just for his incredible choreography but also for his ability to connect with his partners and bring out their best performances. His routines often blended traditional ballroom with contemporary and innovative moves, setting him apart from other dancers on the show. His passion, creativity, and hard work were evident in every performance, earning him the respect of both judges and fans alike.

Choreographer and Director

In addition to his work on "Dancing with the Stars," Derek Hough has made a name for himself as a talented choreographer. He has choreographed dance routines for various music artists, stage shows, and television productions. One of his notable collaborations was with singer Michael Bublé, where Derek directed and choreographed the music video for Bublé’s hit song “I Believe in You.”

Derek’s work as a choreographer goes beyond television and music videos. He has also been involved in theater and live shows. He starred in the critically acclaimed production of "Footloose: The Musical" in London's West End, and his dance experience translated seamlessly to the stage.

In 2015, Derek made his Broadway debut in the New York Spring Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, alongside the legendary Rockettes. His work in this production showcased his ability to shine in live theater, and once again, he proved that his talents extended beyond just dancing.

Judge on "Dancing with the Stars" and "World of Dance"

In 2020, Derek returned to "Dancing with the Stars" in a new role—as a judge. Having been a professional dancer on the show for so many seasons, his transition to the judges' panel felt natural. He brought his expertise and deep knowledge of dance to his critiques, offering valuable feedback to the contestants. His judging style was praised for being fair, insightful, and always delivered with kindness and enthusiasm.

Before returning to "Dancing with the Stars" as a judge, Derek was also a judge on NBC’s "World of Dance," alongside Jennifer Lopez and Ne-Yo. "World of Dance" was a global dance competition show where dancers of all ages and styles competed for a grand prize. Derek’s role as a judge on this show further cemented his reputation as an expert in dance, and his feedback was both constructive and encouraging.

Acting and Music

While Derek Hough is primarily known for his dancing, he has also dabbled in acting and music. He has appeared in several TV shows and films, including "Nashville" and "Make Your Move," a dance film where he played the lead role. Derek's love for performing is evident in everything he does, whether it’s dancing, acting, or singing.

In addition to acting, Derek is also a talented musician. He plays multiple instruments, including the piano, guitar, and drums. He has released music and often incorporates live performances into his dance tours. His love for music and dance go hand in hand, and he enjoys blending the two in his creative work.

Personal Life and Influence

Derek Hough has always been open about his love for his family and his passion for inspiring others. His close relationship with his sister Julianne has been well-documented, and the two have often worked together on projects. They even went on a dance tour called "Move Live on Tour," where they performed across the United States, showcasing their extraordinary dance skills.

Derek is also passionate about health and wellness. He regularly shares his fitness routines and healthy lifestyle tips on social media, encouraging others to stay active and live a balanced life.

His positive attitude, work ethic, and dedication have made him a role model for many aspiring dancers and performers. Whether he’s on the dance floor, on stage, or behind the camera, Derek Hough’s influence in the entertainment world is undeniable.

Conclusion

Derek Hough is a true multi-talented performer who has left an indelible mark on the world of dance and entertainment. From his early days training in London to his record-breaking success on "Dancing with the Stars," Derek has consistently pushed boundaries and inspired audiences. His work as a choreographer, judge, actor, and musician shows his versatility and passion for the arts.

Through his hard work, creativity, and positive energy, Derek Hough continues to be a shining star, proving that with dedication and a love for what you do, anything is possible.