Derek Hough, beloved “Dancing With the Stars” judge and world-renowned choreographer, is trading in glittering ballrooms for baby bottles. Appearing on Good Morning America with a beaming smile, the 39-year-old couldn’t contain his joy as he made the big announcement: “I’m gonna be a dad!” Calling fatherhood “the ultimate role,” Hough revealed it’s something he’s dreamed about for years—a milestone he’s been eagerly waiting to embrace.
On July 22, Hough and his wife, fellow dance professional Hayley Erbert, shared their happy news with fans on Instagram. In the heartwarming clip, the couple embraces before Erbert holds up a strip of sonogram photos. “We can’t believe the biggest thing to happen to us could be so small ♥️,” they captioned the post, instantly melting hearts across social media.
Hough appeared on GMA alongside his sister Julianne Hough, radiating excitement about the journey ahead. He even joked with host Michael Strahan that he might be calling him for fatherhood advice. With a laugh, Hough admitted he and Erbert have already been wondering whether their little one will inherit their dancing genes. “We’re thinking about it. Hayley and I met dancing, so… we’ll see,” he said with a grin.
The road to this moment has been years in the making. Hough and Erbert, who tied the knot in August 2023, have been openly discussing their desire to start a family. That conversation gained momentum in early 2023 after spending time with fellow “DWTS” stars Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson, along with their son, Rome. “There wasn’t a rush until we met Val and Jenna’s baby, and then it was like… should we get on this now?” Hough shared with Entertainment Tonight.
Hough recalls that a piece of advice from Chmerkovskiy left a lasting impression. “Val said, ‘Bro, for somebody who was created to create, this will be your ultimate creation,’” the DWTS judge explained. That sentiment struck a chord, making him see fatherhood not just as a life change, but as the most meaningful role he could ever take on.
When news of the pregnancy broke, the couple’s “DWTS” family flooded their announcement with love. “Oh my gosh!!!! Congratulations you guys … sending you lots of love,” wrote Shana Burgess. Carrie Ann Inaba gushed, “Baby Hough!!! I am so happy for you both!!!” while Maksim Chmerkovskiy celebrated, “NOW we’re finally on the same schedule! Baby Hough is going to love being your baby!”
For Hough, the dance of life is about to change tempo. His Instagram bio now proudly reads “Soon to be Daddy,” a sweet nod to the next chapter ahead. As fans wait to see whether Baby Hough will follow in the footsteps of two of the world’s best dancers, one thing is certain—Derek Hough is ready to take the stage for the most important performance of his life.
