Derek Hough is returning to Dancing With the Stars — this time as a judge.
Hough, the winningest professional dancer in DWTS history, will join Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli at the judges’ table in the coming season, which premieres Sept. 14. He’ll take the spot normally occupied by Len Goodman, who isn’t traveling to the United States in light of the coronavirus pandemic. He will, however, remain part of the show, sharing his expertise from the U.K.
“This show has been and will always be incredibly special to me,” said Hough. “Coming back feels like coming home and I couldn’t be more excited to be back in the ballroom.”
Hough was last on Dancing With the Stars in 2016, when he partnered with Marilu Henner. More recently he’s been a judge on NBC’s World of Dance, guest starred on High School Musical: The Musical: The Series and appeared in the Disney Family Singalong specials earlier this year. He’s also prepping a residency at the Flamingo Las Vegas, which is set to open next year.
Dancing With the Stars’ 29th season will feature a new host in Tyra Banks (who also executive produces with Andrew Llinares) and contestants including Tiger King’s Carole Baskin, former Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe, Nelly, Anne Heche, Johnny Weir and Justina Machado, among others.
