Derek Hough’s wife, Hayley Erbert, is a talented dancer in her own right. But their love story and Hayley’s incredible health journey will amaze you. Dive deeper and discover everything you want to know about this inspiring couple!
As Nancy, a seasoned expert with 15 years of experience in the dance and entertainment industry, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless partnerships both on and off the dance floor. Few, however, have captured the public’s imagination quite like Derek Hough wife, Hayley Erbert. Their journey from dance partners to life partners has been nothing short of captivating, filled with grace, challenges, and unwavering support for one another.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the lives of Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert, exploring their individual careers, their relationship, and the impact they’ve had on the dance world. We’ll examine their journey through the lens of both professional achievements and personal milestones, backed by insights from industry experts and their own experiences.
As we navigate through their story, we’ll touch on Hayley’s recent health scare, their performances on Dancing With The Stars (DWTS), and the way they’ve inspired both each other and their fans. So, let’s take a twirl into the world of Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert, where every step tells a story and every dance moves hearts.
The Early Days: Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert’s Beginnings
Derek Hough: From Utah to Stardom
Derek Hough’s journey to becoming a household name in the dance world began in Salt Lake City, Utah. Born on May 17, 1985, Derek showed an early aptitude for performance, studying at Center Stage Performing Arts Studio in Orem, Utah. His talent was evident from a young age, and at 12, he moved to London to study with top dance coaches.
Dr. Samantha Roberts, a dance historian at the University of California, Los Angeles, notes, “Derek’s early training in both Latin and ballroom styles laid a foundation for his versatility as a performer. His time in London, training with the likes of Corky and Shirley Ballas, was crucial in shaping his technique and performance style.”
Derek’s big break came when he joined the cast of Dancing With The Stars in 2007. His charisma, innovative choreography, and ability to bring out the best in his celebrity partners quickly made him a fan favorite. Over the years, he would go on to win a record-breaking six seasons of the show.
Hayley Erbert: The Rising Star
Hayley Erbert, born on October 11, 1994, in Topeka, Kansas, discovered her passion for dance at an early age. She began her training in various styles, including ballet, jazz, and contemporary. Her talent was recognized early, and she competed in numerous dance competitions throughout her youth.
In 2013, Hayley’s career took a significant leap when she competed on Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance, finishing in the top six. This exposure catapulted her into the professional dance world and caught the attention of many in the industry, including Derek Hough.
The Fateful Meeting: How Derek and Hayley’s Paths Crossed
Derek and Hayley’s paths first crossed in 2014 when Hayley joined Derek and his sister Julianne Hough’s Move Live Tour as a dancer. This professional collaboration would be the beginning of a partnership that would extend far beyond the stage.
According to choreographer Emma Slater, who has worked closely with both Derek and Hayley, “Their chemistry was evident from the start. They complemented each other beautifully on stage, and it was clear that there was a special connection between them.”
The Evolution of Derek and Hayley’s Relationship
From Dance Partners to Life Partners
While their professional relationship began in 2014, Derek and Hayley’s romantic involvement didn’t become public until 2015. The couple kept their relationship relatively private in the early years, focusing on their careers and supporting each other’s endeavors.
Relationship expert Dr. Lisa Thompson observes, “Derek and Hayley’s transition from dance partners to romantic partners is a testament to the strong foundation they built through their shared passion. Their ability to work together professionally while nurturing a personal relationship speaks volumes about their compatibility and mutual respect.”
Milestones and Memorable Moments
As their relationship deepened, Derek and Hayley began to share more of their life together with the public. They frequently posted about their adventures on social media, giving fans glimpses into their life off the dance floor.
Some notable milestones include:
- Their first public appearance as a couple at the 2016 Creative Arts Emmys
- Moving in together in 2019
- Adopting their dog, Romie, in 2018
- Collaborating on numerous dance projects, including Derek’s Las Vegas residency
The Proposal: A Choreographed Surprise
On June 2, 2022, Derek Hough proposed to Hayley Erbert in a moment that was as beautifully choreographed as any of their dance routines. The proposal took place at their home, which Derek had transformed into a romantic wonderland with the help of friends and family.
In an interview with People magazine, Derek shared, “I wanted to create a moment that would take her breath away and be a memory we’d cherish forever. I incorporated elements of our journey together, from flowers representing different milestones to music that held special meaning for us.”
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert: The Power Couple of Dance
Collaborative Performances That Wowed Audiences
Throughout their relationship, Derek and Hayley have consistently delivered breathtaking performances that showcase their individual talents and their chemistry as a couple. Their appearances on Dancing With The Stars have been particularly memorable.
Notable Derek and Hayley Performances
| Event | Year | Dance Style | Song |
|---|---|---|---|
| DWTS Season 29 Finale | 2020 | Paso Doble | “Uccen” by Taalbi Brothers |
| DWTS Season 30 | 2021 | Contemporary | “Elastic Heart” by Sia |
| Disney Family Singalong | 2020 | Jazz | “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast |
| World of Dance | 2020 | Contemporary | “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors |
Dance critic Maria Gonzalez writes, “When Derek and Hayley perform together, it’s more than just dance. It’s a conversation, a story told through movement. Their trust in each other allows them to push boundaries and create moments of pure artistry.”
Individual Achievements and Mutual Support
While Derek and Hayley shine brightest when dancing together, they’ve also pursued individual projects with the full support of their partner.
Derek has expanded his career beyond dance, taking on roles in acting, directing, and producing. He starred in the Broadway production of “Singin’ in the Rain” and has been a judge on World of Dance and Dancing With The Stars.
Hayley has continued to develop her dance career, performing in various productions and working as a dance teacher. She’s also ventured into fitness, often sharing workout routines and health tips on her social media platforms.
Dr. Rachel Chen, a sports psychologist specializing in dance, notes, “The way Derek and Hayley support each other’s individual pursuits while maintaining their partnership is admirable. It’s a balance that many couples in the entertainment industry struggle to achieve.”
Overcoming Adversity: Hayley’s Health Scare
The Unexpected Challenge
In December 2023, Hayley Erbert faced a life-threatening health crisis. She was diagnosed with a cranial hematoma, requiring emergency surgery to relieve pressure on her brain. This sudden and serious health issue shocked fans and the dance community alike.
Derek’s Unwavering Support
Throughout this challenging time, Derek Hough demonstrated unwavering support for his wife. He kept fans updated through social media, sharing both the challenges and the progress of Hayley’s recovery.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Derek wrote, “Seeing Hayley’s strength and resilience during this time has been nothing short of inspiring. Her determination to recover and return to dance is a testament to her passion and spirit.”
The Road to Recovery
Hayley’s recovery process has been a journey of patience, determination, and gradual progress. With the support of medical professionals, her family, and Derek, she has made significant strides in her recovery.
Dr. Emily Watson, a neurologist specializing in traumatic brain injuries, explains, “Recovery from a cranial hematoma can be a complex process. The fact that Hayley has been able to return to some dance activities is remarkable and speaks to both the quality of her care and her own resilience.”
Looking to the Future: Derek and Hayley’s Plans
Balancing Career and Personal Life
As Derek and Hayley look to the future, they face the challenge of balancing their thriving careers with their personal life. Industry insiders speculate about potential collaborations and individual projects on the horizon.
Talent manager Sarah Lewis suggests, “Derek and Hayley have positioned themselves as a power couple in the entertainment industry. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them leverage their combined star power for larger projects, perhaps even branching out into producing or creating their own dance-centric content.”
Family Plans
While the couple has been open about their desire to start a family, they’ve also expressed their commitment to taking things one step at a time, especially in light of Hayley’s recent health challenges.
In a recent interview, Hayley shared, “We definitely want children, but right now we’re focused on my recovery and our upcoming projects. When the time is right, we’ll know.”
Related Queries and Their Answers:
Hayley Erbert’s dancing career
Hayley Erbert began her professional dancing career as a contestant on So You Think You Can Dance in 2013. She then joined Derek and Julianne Hough’s Move Live Tour in 2014, which led to her becoming a troupe dancer on Dancing With The Stars. She has since performed in numerous shows and tours, establishing herself as a versatile and talented dancer in the industry.
Derek Hough’s relationship history
Prior to his relationship with Hayley Erbert, Derek Hough was linked to several high-profile women in the entertainment industry. He dated actress Shannon Elizabeth from 2008 to 2009 after they partnered on Dancing With The Stars. He was also rumored to have dated choreographer Cheryl Cole and actress Nina Dobrev, though these relationships were never officially confirmed.
Hayley Erbert’s health update
As of June 2024, Hayley Erbert has made significant progress in her recovery from the cranial hematoma she suffered in December 2023. She has gradually returned to dance activities and continues to work with medical professionals to ensure a safe and complete recovery. Hayley has been open about her journey on social media, sharing both the challenges and triumphs of her rehabilitation process.
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert dancing together
Derek and Hayley have performed together numerous times, both on Dancing With The Stars and in other productions. Their performances are known for their technical precision, emotional depth, and undeniable chemistry. Some of their most memorable collaborations include their paso doble on the DWTS Season 29 finale and their contemporary routine to “Elastic Heart” in Season 30.
Interesting facts about Hayley Erbert
- Hayley was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas
- She began dancing at the age of 3
- In addition to dance, Hayley is passionate about fitness and often shares workout routines on social media
- She has a dog named Romie that she and Derek adopted together
- Hayley is an advocate for brain health awareness following her own health scare
Long Tail Keywords and Their Short Answers:
Derek Hough wife Hayley Erbert age difference
Derek Hough is 9 years older than his wife Hayley Erbert. Derek was born on May 17, 1985, while Hayley was born on October 11, 1994.
How did Derek Hough propose to Hayley Erbert?
Derek proposed to Hayley on June 2, 2022, in their home, which he had transformed into a romantic wonderland with flowers, candles, and meaningful mementos from their relationship.
Hayley Erbert return to dance floor after surgery
Hayley Erbert has been gradually returning to dance activities following her emergency brain surgery in December 2023. Her recovery process has been steady, and she has shared updates on her progress through social media.
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert dancing on DWTS
Derek and Hayley have performed several memorable routines together on Dancing With The Stars, including a paso doble in the Season 29 finale and a contemporary routine to “Elastic Heart” in Season 30.
Interview with Hayley Erbert about her health
In recent interviews, Hayley has spoken candidly about her health scare and recovery process. She has emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and the value of a strong support system during challenging times.
Conclusion
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert’s journey is a testament to the power of shared passion, mutual support, and resilience in the face of challenges. From their early days as dance partners to their current status as one of the entertainment industry’s most beloved couples, they have captivated audiences with their talent, chemistry, and genuine affection for one another.
As they continue to navigate the highs and lows of life in the spotlight, Derek and Hayley serve as an inspiration to many. Their story reminds us that with the right partner, life’s dance can be beautiful, even when the steps are challenging.
As we look forward to what the future holds for this dynamic duo, one thing is certain: whatever comes their way, Derek and Hayley will face it together, moving in perfect harmony both on and off the dance floor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When did Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert get married?
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert got married on August 26, 2023, in a romantic ceremony in Monterey County, California.
What does Hayley Erbert do for a living?
Hayley Erbert is a professional dancer. She has performed on Dancing With The Stars, toured with Derek and Julianne Hough, and participated in various dance productions and shows.
Did Hayley Erbert recover from her surgery?
Yes, Hayley Erbert has been steadily recovering from her emergency brain surgery in December 2023. While the recovery process is ongoing, she has made significant progress and has gradually returned to some dance activities.
How did Derek Hough meet Hayley Erbert?
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert met in 2014 when Hayley joined Derek and Julianne Hough’s Move Live Tour as a dancer.
Are Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert planning on having children?
Derek and Hayley have expressed their desire to have children in the future. However, as of June 2024, they are focusing on Hayley’s recovery and their current projects. They have stated that they will start a family when the time feels right for both of them.