Derek Hough Opens Up about 'DWTS' Milestone Season in a Candid Interview – Here's What He Had to Say

Derek Hough is returning to the 30th season of "Dancing with the Stars". The former pro-dancer will be a judge for the competition for the second season in a row.

Derek Hough has announced that he is returning to his seat at the judges' panel for "Dancing With The Stars" season 30. This will be his second season as a judge after numerous seasons as a pro-dancer.

Hough, 35, is a favorite on the ballroom stage but will be channeling his expertise in a different way for the competition's 30th season, and he couldn't be happier to be a judge again.

NEW MILESTONES

Hough's talent and dancing abilities are unquestioned on the "Dancing with the Stars" stage as he holds the record for the most mirrorball wins. He has reeled in the prize a total of six times.

The professional dancer joined the show in its fifth season and is now moving onto the next season of his ballroom journey, marking a major milestone for him. Hough shared:

"I'm very excited. It's extraordinary. Unbelievable to think that it's season 30."

STAR-STUDDED PANEL

The dancing competition's fans are in for a good time, with Hough forming part of a star-studded judging panel for the 30th season. It has been confirmed that Len Goodman is coming back to the show permanently.

Erbert also formed part of the "Dancing With The Stars" franchise, competing in season 21.

Goodman was part of the former season but only featured virtually to share some of his expertise and advice. He was stranded in the U.K. during the COVID-19 pandemic but has made his back for the new season.

VERY ACCOMPLISHED

Hough may be predominately known for his work as a professional dancer, but he is also accomplished in many other fields. The dancer has also authored a book titled " Taking the Lead: Lessons from a Life in Motion."

He has also put his choreography skills to use on the ice and created a dance for world champions Meryl Davis and Charlie White for their 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics short dance program. They reeled in gold for their performance.

SURROUNDED BY TALENT

Having cemented his reputation as a respected dancer and choreographer, Hough doesn't stand alone. Both his sister, Juliane Hough, and his girlfriend Hayley Erbert are dancers in their own right.

Erbert also formed part of the "Dancing With The Stars" franchise, competing in season 21, and made her start on the stage by dancing in the tenth season of "So You Think You Can Dance."

Erbert and Hough met on "Dancing With The Stars" and have been saying since 2015. The dancing couple has been inseparable since, their duets frequent their social media pages often.

Hough only has good things to say about his girlfriend and her impact on his life. He elaborated, sharing, “She’s really, really grounded—just really down to earth."