Derek Hough

Lore & Background

Derek Hough grew up the fourth of five children in a Latter-day Saint family in Sandy, Utah. His parents, Marianne and Bruce Hough, met while on a ballroom dancing team in college. When Hough was 12, his divorcing parents sent him to London to live and study with dance coaches Corky and Shirley Ballas. His sister Julianne joined him several months later. Originally intending to stay for three months, Hough remained in London for ten years, training at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in singing, theater, gymnastics, and many forms of dance. He made his first appearance on Dancing with the Stars in season four as a guest instructor, then joined as a professional in season five. He received 14 Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Choreography, winning four times.

Reader's Guide

Derek Hough's significance lies in his record-breaking success on Dancing with the Stars, where he won six mirror ball trophies, more than any other professional dancer in the show's history. His choreography earned him four Primetime Emmy Awards and 14 nominations, reflecting his influence on televised dance. His transition from professional dancer to judge on Dancing with the Stars and World of Dance, and later to host of Extra, demonstrates his versatility in entertainment. Hough also contributed to live theater and musical television productions, such as Hairspray Live! His early training in London under Corky and Shirley Ballas, alongside his sister Julianne, shaped his career and helped produce a generation of dance talent. Hough's legacy is that of a multi-talented performer who helped popularize ballroom and Latin dance on mainstream television.

Did You Know?

• He choreographed the short dance program for Olympic gold medalists Meryl Davis and Charlie White.