Julianne Hough has always had a way of keeping fans on their toes, but this time, she’s delivered her biggest surprise yet. The Dancing With the Stars favorite and all-around entertainment powerhouse just revealed she’s officially engaged — and the lucky man is her longtime love, Tanner Courtad. The news has set social media ablaze, as fans everywhere celebrate the couple’s leap from private romance to a forever promise.
The announcement came with no buildup, no leaks, no whispers from insiders — just a single breathtaking photo shared on Instagram. Julianne, glowing in a simple white sundress, covered her mouth in joyous disbelief as Tanner knelt before her, ring in hand, against a backdrop of California’s stunning Big Sur coastline. The raw emotion captured in the moment spoke louder than words: a love story sealed in surprise.
Reactions from fans poured in instantly. “Wait, what?!” one follower exclaimed. Another wrote, “I thought they broke up?! OMG THIS IS EVERYTHING.” The engagement marks a new chapter for Julianne, who has navigated heartbreak and healing in the public eye since her split from former NHL player Brooks Laich. Through it all, she remained focused on her artistry, wellness projects, and personal growth — all while keeping her relationship with Tanner mostly private.
Tanner, a fitness coach and model with a love for nature, has been a steady and grounding presence in Julianne’s life. Close friends revealed that he orchestrated the proposal with incredible thoughtfulness. From handwritten love notes scattered along a private hiking trail to the overlook where the couple once watched a sunset together, every detail pointed to a moment years in the making. When Julianne saw the view, the ring, and Tanner on one knee, her answer came in joyful tears: yes.
“She never saw it coming,” a source close to the couple said. “But it was the kind of surprise that felt completely right.” For fans who’ve rooted for Julianne through triumphs and trials, the proposal feels like a long-awaited happy ending — or perhaps, the start of her most beautiful beginning.
The entertainment world wasted no time celebrating. Julianne’s brother, Derek Hough, cheered the news with a proud big-brother glow. Close friend Nina Dobrev posted her excitement, while former DWTS partner Apolo Ohno added his congratulations. Their well-wishes echoed the larger sentiment: Julianne has found a love as radiant as the light she’s always brought to the stage.
Naturally, speculation has already turned toward the wedding. Will the couple opt for an intimate, nature-filled elopement in the mountains, or a glamorous Hollywood affair with a star-studded guest list? Fans are already imagining Derek choreographing the first dance, or perhaps a ballroom-inspired tribute to Julianne’s iconic career. While details remain under wraps, Julianne has hinted that she envisions “a magical celebration of love and movement.”
For now, the newly engaged couple seems content simply basking in the glow of their milestone. Julianne’s engagement isn’t just about finding love — it’s about reclaiming joy, embracing healing, and writing a new chapter on her own terms. And in true Julianne fashion, she’s doing it all with grace, strength, and a little bit of sparkle. The stage may be set for her next great performance — only this time, it’s a dance into forever.
