Derek and Julianne Hough are beloved figures in the ballroom dance world. Their sibling bond has always appeared strong, with frequent collaborations and a united front in public. However, Julianne recently hinted at deeper issues between them.
In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Julianne revealed that despite their seemingly perfect relationship, they have their share of problems. She mentioned that Derek’s wife, Hayley Erbert, suffered a severe medical emergency last December, needing two skull surgeries. This event, though tragic, helped the family reconnect.
“Something happens and it just is like a clean slate,” Julianne shared. She added, “Especially with what just happened with Derek and Hayley, there could have been little things just kind of looming or lingering in the background, but when you’re left with life-or-death situations, nothing else matters. Whatever little things of competition there are or whatever it might be, those things just go away.”
A Test of Family Bonds
Julianne Hough emphasized how such critical moments highlight what truly matters. “I am so blessed to have the family that I have, even when we’re not all on the same page, when we don’t sometimes have the same beliefs or understandings of things,” she continued. The ordeal with Hayley’s health scare brought the family closer, making petty disputes seem insignificant.
Julianne further explained the pain of feeling disconnected from loved ones. “The thing that hurts the most is when we’re not connected. And so sometimes you do the thing that hurts the most, which is remove yourself because you’re trying to protect yourself. So our family is like any other family. We have our situations and our s—, but our deepest desire is to connect. And I think we all really have a strong desire to make that happen.”
Reunited for Season 33
Despite their busy personal lives, both Derek and Julianne Hough will return to “Dancing With The Stars” for Season 33. Derek will resume his role as head judge, while Julianne will co-host with Alfonso Ribeiro. Fans are hopeful the siblings will set aside their differences for a successful season.
Julianne acknowledged the importance of family health over sibling rivalries. She told PEOPLE that her issues with Derek were cast aside following Hayley’s hospitalization and surgeries. “Whatever little things of competition there are or whatever it might be, those things just go away.”
Hayley Erbert’s health scare was a significant challenge for the Hough family. She was rushed to the hospital after becoming disoriented during a performance, undergoing a cranioplasty to replace part of her skull. Once fully healed, she returned to the stage with Derek in April.
Julianne also touched on her sister Katherine’s struggles, dealing with the loss of her partner to glioblastoma two years ago. Despite these challenges, Julianne expressed gratitude for her family’s support. “When something tragic happens or something really hard or something where somebody needs you … It makes you realize that as humans, as people on this planet, we really do care so much.”
A United Front for Fans
As Derek and Julianne Hough gear up for the new season of “Dancing With The Stars,” fans are eager to see them back in action. Their ability to overcome personal issues and support each other during difficult times is inspiring. The Hough siblings remind us that even in the spotlight, family dynamics can be complex and challenging. Yet, with love and understanding, they continue to dance through life together.
