Just days after sharing that their biggest duet yet will be as parents, Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert lit up Los Angeles with a public appearance that radiated pure joy. The couple, who announced they are expecting their first child on July 22, were spotted hand in hand at the VIP launch of the International Dance League (IDL) on July 26 — their smiles brighter and steps lighter than ever.
Hough, 40, and Erbert, 30, had only recently melted hearts with an intimate Instagram video revealing the news. In the clip, set against a breathtaking scenic backdrop, the Dancing with the Stars judge wrapped his arms around his wife as she held up sonogram photos for the camera. “We can’t believe the biggest thing to happen to us could be so small ♥️,” they wrote in the caption, a message that instantly drew thousands of congratulatory messages from fans and fellow dancers.
The love story between the two began back in 2014 when Erbert joined Hough on tour. After years of friendship and romance, they got engaged in June 2022, saying “I do” in a romantic August 2023 wedding. Now, less than two years later, they’re stepping into the most life-changing choreography of all — parenthood.
At the IDL event, held at the historic Shrine Auditorium, the couple looked effortlessly stylish while mingling with fellow dancers and fans. Hough, ever the proud husband, kept a protective hand near Erbert as they navigated the bustling red carpet. While the night celebrated global dance talent, much of the spotlight seemed to follow the soon-to-be parents.
The International Dance League’s launch was a high-energy celebration of some of the world’s top crews, including Royal Family (New Zealand), 1MILLION (South Korea), Quick Style (UAE), GRV (USA), Brotherhood (Canada), and Jam Republic (Singapore). The competition brought out the passion and precision that defines the global dance scene, with Just Maiko serving as host and rapper BIA delivering a crowd-thrilling halftime performance.
Adding to the cultural flair, the event also featured an exclusive merchandise capsule from fashion designer Jeff Staple. But while fans came for the dance battles, many left talking about Hough and Erbert’s glow — a mix of excitement, gratitude, and a touch of awe for what’s ahead.
Friends close to the couple say the pregnancy has brought them even closer, with Hough already dreaming up lullabies and Erbert finding ways to balance her artistry with the coming responsibilities of motherhood. For two people whose lives have been choreographed in eight-counts, this next act promises to be a freestyle — unpredictable, beautiful, and full of love.
From the rehearsal studios of Los Angeles to the nursery they’ll soon be decorating, Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert are dancing into a brand-new season. And if their history together is any indication, this performance will be one for the ages.
