Derek Hough

Derek Hough is a versatile American talent renowned as a professional Latin and ballroom dancer, choreographer, actor, and singer. He gained fame as a professional dancer on the ABC competition series *Dancing with the Stars*, where he made history by winning an unprecedented six titles with various celebrity partners from 2007 to 2016. Following his impressive dancing career, Hough transitioned to a judging role on the show starting in its 29th season.

Beyond *Dancing with the Stars*, Hough has showcased his acting abilities on stage, performing in the West End premiere of *Footloose: The Musical* at the Novello Theatre and participating in the 2015 *New York Spring Spectacular* at Radio City Music Hall. His film credits include a leading role in *Make Your Move*, and he had a recurring part in the ABC musical-drama series *Nashville*. Notably, in 2016, he portrayed Corny Collins in NBC's live musical production of *Hairspray Live!*. From 2017 to 2020, he served as a judge on NBC's *World of Dance*. In 2024, Hough starred alongside Jennifer Lopez in the autobiographical musical comedy *This Is Me... Now*.

Hough is also a celebrated choreographer, having won four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Choreography and receiving a total of fourteen Emmy nominations for his work on *Dancing with the Stars*.