Derek Hough was born on May 17th, 1985

Written by: Cassandra Blake

Derek Hough: The King of Dance and Beyond

Derek Hough is a household name, synonymous with dynamic dance moves, captivating choreography, and a charming on-screen presence. As a professional Latin and ballroom dancer, choreographer, actor, and singer, Hough has made an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, winning a record-breaking six mirror ball trophies on ABC's dance competition series Dancing with the Stars.

Rise to Fame

Hough's journey to stardom began with his professional dance career, which spanned over a decade. From 2007 to 2016, he was a pro dancer on Dancing with the Stars, partnering with celebrities like Brooke Burke, Nicole Scherzinger, and Kellie Pickler, among others. During this period, he racked up an impressive 14 nominations for the Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography, taking home the award four times.

Expanding His Horizons

In addition to his Dancing with the Stars success, Hough has explored various facets of the entertainment industry. He made his West End debut in the musical Footloose, and later starred in the 2015 New York Spring Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. On the big screen, he appeared in the film Make Your Move, and on television, he had a recurring role in the ABC musical drama Nashville.

Judging and Mentoring

In 2016, Hough transitioned to the judges' table on Dancing with the Stars, offering constructive criticism and guidance to the contestants. From 2017 to 2020, he served as a judge on the NBC dance competition series World of Dance, further solidifying his reputation as a dance expert and mentor.

Early Life and Family

Hough was born on May 17, 1985, in Sandy, Utah, as the fourth of five children in a Latter-day Saint family. His parents, Marianne and Bruce Hough, were both dancers who met while on a ballroom dancing team in college. Hough's grandparents were also dancers, and he has four sisters, including Julianne Hough, who followed in his footsteps as a professional dancer.

Training and Mentorship

When Hough was 12, his parents sent him to London to study dance with coaches Corky and Shirley Ballas. He spent ten years in London, honing his craft and learning from the best in the industry. His sister Julianne joined him in London several months later, and they both benefited from the expert guidance of the Ballases.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Hough is known for his emphasis on hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He believes that success is not solely dependent on talent, but rather on the effort one puts into honing their craft. Through his journey, he has inspired countless young dancers and artists to pursue their passions and strive for excellence.

Net Worth and Financial Impact

Hough's successful career has translated to a significant net worth, estimated to be around $5 million. His income comes from a variety of sources, including his work on Dancing with the Stars, judging and mentoring on various dance competitions, as well as his acting and singing endeavors.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Hough is a second cousin to the Lynch siblings, Riker, Rydel, Rocky, Ryland, and Ross, who form the band R5.
• He has been named one of the "Sexiest Men Alive" by People magazine.
• Hough has been involved in various charity initiatives, including supporting the American Red Cross and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Influence on Pop Culture

Hough's impact on popular culture extends beyond the dance world. He has inspired a new generation of dancers, actors, and artists, and has brought ballroom dance to the forefront of mainstream entertainment. His charisma, talent, and dedication have made him a household name, and he continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.