If you’ve followed Derek Hough over the years, you already know he’s no stranger to the spotlight. From dominating the ballroom on “Dancing with the Stars” to building a career as a performer and judge, his professional life has been front and center. His personal life? That’s a bit more low-key… but still pretty fascinating.
Let’s be real: fans have always been curious about who’s had his heart. And while Hough isn’t one to overshare, there are a few key relationships and milestones that give us a glimpse into his romantic world. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Derek Hough Dated Shannon Elizabeth
GettyShannon Elizabeth and Derek Hough at Maxim’s 10th Annual Hot 100 Celebration in 2009
Before long-term love entered the picture, Hough had a headline-making relationship with Shannon Elizabeth. According to Parade, the two met as partners on Season 6 of “Dancing with the Stars,” which (let’s be honest) is basically a matchmaking show at this point.
Their chemistry on the dance floor translated into real life, and they dated for about a year between 2008 and 2009. While the relationship didn’t last forever, it definitely marked one of Hough’s earliest public romances and had fans fully invested at the time.
2. He Was Tied to 2 Stars in the Mid-2000s
GettyMaria Menounos takes selfie with Derek Hough, Nikki Reed, and Julianne Hough at The Kaleidoscope Ball benefiting the UCLA Children’s Discovery and Innovation Institute in 2014
Hough’s dating history includes a couple of familiar Hollywood names, including Nina Dobrev and Nikki Reed.
In 2013, he was briefly linked to Dobrev, per E! News. And it seemed like a natural fit (same social circles, similar energy) but the connection didn’t turn into anything long-term.
Then in 2014, he was also very briefly connected to Reed, according to US Weekly, which called the moment a “hookup” only. Rumors suggest they may have been introduced through his sister, Julianne Hough. But, again, it was short-lived; though still enough to keep fans talking.
Basically, Hough had his share of Hollywood moments before settling down.
3. Derek Hough Married Hayley Erbert in 2023
GettyHayley Erbert and Derek Hough at the World Premiere of Disney’s “Tron: Ares” in Hollywood, CA (2025)
GettyHayley Erbert and Derek Hough smooch at the World Premiere of Disney’s “Tron: Ares” in 2025
Now here’s where things get serious; in the best way. Hough found lasting love with fellow dancer Hayley Erbert, and the two officially tied the knot in 2023, via People.
Their relationship had been years in the making, with Erbert also being part of the “Dancing with the Stars” world. It seems like their shared passion for dance (and performing in general) helped build a strong foundation.
Fans had been rooting for them for a while, so when the wedding finally happened, it felt like a full-circle moment. And yep, it was every bit as romantic as you’d expect.
4. The Couple Has 1 Kid, a Daughter
Hough and Erbert entered a brand-new chapter in December 2025: parenthood. Their daughter, Everley Capri Hough, was born on the 29th, almost a 2026 baby instead.
It seems like the couple has fully embraced this next phase of life. While they haven’t put every detail out there (on brand for Hough), the milestone itself was a big moment for fans who’ve followed his journey from bachelor dancer to husband and dad.
5. Derek Hough Prefers to Keep His Life More Private
If there’s one consistent theme here, it’s that Hough doesn’t overshare. Sure, we get glimpses of his relationships and major life updates, but he’s never been the type to put everything on blast.
And honestly? That’s part of the appeal. In a world where every detail can become content, Hough keeping things a little more private feels refreshing. It also makes the moments he does share (like his marriage or becoming a father) feel that much more meaningful.
At the end of the day, Derek Hough’s love story isn’t about constant headlines. It’s about growth, stability, and finding the right person. And yeah, fans are definitely here for it.
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