Derek Hough Reveals He’s Expecting a Child — “Dancing With the Stars” Judge Welcomes Fatherhood With Happiness and Anticipation

Derek Hough, the longtime Dancing with the Stars judge, and his wife, Hayley Erbert, are overjoyed to announce they are expecting their first child together. The couple tied the knot in August 2023 after publicly dating since 2017, having first met while touring with So You Think You Can Dance in 2014.

The happy news was shared in July 2025 through a heartfelt Instagram video. In it, Derek embraced Hayley, giving her a kiss, before she revealed an ultrasound image of their baby. The caption read, “We can’t believe that the biggest thing happening to us could be so small.” Fans flooded the post with congratulations, excited to celebrate the couple’s new chapter.

During a Dancing with the Stars episode on October 14, Derek unintentionally hinted at the baby’s gender while commenting on Jordan Chiles and Ezra Sosa’s performance. “Watching you dance makes me want that moment with… my child,” he said, before catching himself. Many fans speculate he may have been about to reveal that they are expecting a girl.

The journey to parenthood has not been without heartbreak. Derek and Hayley openly shared that they experienced a miscarriage prior to this pregnancy, calling the upcoming baby their “rainbow baby.” They expressed hope that sharing their story could comfort others going through similar loss, highlighting the emotional highs and lows of their journey.

Derek described the joy and anticipation of becoming a father, especially after feeling the baby move for the first time. “Feeling that tiny kick was incredibly emotional,” he shared. “I can’t wait to experience all the special moments with our child.”

Family and friends have been quick to offer support and congratulations. Derek’s sister, Julianne Hough, shared the announcement on Instagram, writing: “Baby Hough is so lucky to have you two as parents. Love you both so much — Aunt JuJu is ready!” Fans have joined in the celebration, commenting on Derek and Hayley’s excitement and expressing their eagerness to see the couple embrace parenthood.

While the official gender of the baby has not yet been confirmed, speculation is running high among fans. The couple seems to be savoring every moment, sharing glimpses of their journey without revealing too much too soon.

Derek and Hayley’s story resonates not only because of their celebrity status but also due to their openness about past struggles. They have highlighted the emotional realities of miscarriage and the joy that comes after such loss, encouraging others to celebrate life’s precious moments and offering hope to those who may have faced similar challenges.

As they prepare for the arrival of their first child, Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert are embracing parenthood with excitement, love, and gratitude. The couple’s journey is a reminder of the power of perseverance, resilience, and shared joy in the face of life’s unexpected twists.

Fans are eagerly following updates, waiting for baby news and excited to see how Derek, a seasoned performer and public figure, will step into the role of a devoted father alongside his talented and supportive wife, Hayley.

With this new chapter, Derek Hough adds fatherhood to his impressive list of achievements, promising to share his signature passion and dedication not just on the dance floor, but now in the joys of family life.