For over a decade, Derek Hough has been lighting up television screens and stages around the world — spinning, twirling, and choreographing moments of pure magic. As a six-time Dancing With the Stars champion turned judge, the Emmy-winning performer has built a career defined by movement, passion, and an infectious energy that seems to leap straight from the dance floor into viewers’ hearts.

But now, Hough is preparing for a new kind of performance — one that takes place far from the glittering ballroom lights. Appearing on Good Morning America this week, the 39-year-old star shared the news that he’s about to take on what he calls “the ultimate role”: fatherhood.

“I’m gonna be a dad!” Hough exclaimed, unable to contain his joy as the audience erupted in cheers. “It’s something I’ve been dreaming of for so long.”

The moment was tender and heartfelt, with Hough’s trademark grin lighting up the studio. For a man who has spent his life mastering choreography, this new step feels both spontaneous and deeply meaningful.

A Dream Long in the Making

Hough, who married fellow dancer and actress Hayley Erbert in 2023, has often spoken about his hopes for building a family someday. The couple — adored by fans for their undeniable chemistry both on and off stage — have faced their share of ups and downs.

In late 2023, Erbert underwent emergency brain surgery after developing a rare cranial hematoma. The experience profoundly changed both of them. In interviews following her recovery, Hough described it as “the most terrifying and humbling chapter” of his life.

“We realized how fragile everything is,” he said in a past interview. “It brought us even closer and made us more grateful for every single moment together.”

Now, nearly two years later, that sense of gratitude has blossomed into something even greater — the excitement of welcoming a new life.

“After everything we’ve been through, this feels like such a blessing,” Hough said on GMA. “We’re just so ready for this next chapter.”

A New Kind of Rhythm

For Hough, known for his technical precision and emotional depth as a performer, the transition from dancer to dad might seem like a big leap. But to those who know him best, it’s a natural progression.

“Derek has always been a nurturer,” says a longtime DWTS colleague. “He’s the kind of person who cheers everyone on — whether it’s a partner learning a new routine or a crew member having a tough day. He’s going to be an incredible father.”

The announcement has already sparked a wave of love across social media. Fans and fellow celebrities flooded his Instagram comments with messages of congratulations. Julianne Hough, Derek’s sister and fellow DWTS alum, posted a sweet reaction of her own:

“Uncle/soon-to-be Auntie Jules reporting for duty! So proud of you, bro. This baby is already the luckiest.”

Life Beyond the Spotlight

While Hough remains a fixture on Dancing With the Stars, he’s also spent recent years branching out — from directing and producing stage tours to releasing his own music and motivational projects. In many ways, this next chapter feels like an evolution of his creative spirit.

“Dance has always been about expression, love, and connection,” Hough once said during a masterclass. “That’s what life is about too — finding your rhythm with the people you love most.”

Fatherhood, then, seems like a continuation of that rhythm — one where choreography gives way to lullabies, and standing ovations are replaced with midnight feedings and sleepy giggles.

“I think I’ll approach parenting the same way I approach dance,” he joked on GMA. “Lots of practice, patience, and improvisation!”

Fans Can Expect a Softer Side

As for what comes next, Hough has hinted that his growing family might influence his creative work. He and Erbert recently completed a successful national tour, Symphony of Dance, which blended classical music with contemporary storytelling. The show’s emotional finale — a duet that symbolized love through adversity — now feels prophetic in hindsight.

“That performance was about trust, vulnerability, and hope,” Hough said. “Those themes are even more powerful now.”

Insiders close to the couple say they’ve been nesting quietly at their Los Angeles home, preparing a nursery and spending time with family before the hectic DWTS live shows ramp up again.

“Derek’s been reading baby books between rehearsals,” one friend shared. “He’s taking this role seriously — but with his usual sense of fun.”

The Dance of a Lifetime

For someone who has spent much of his adult life in the public eye, Hough’s journey has always balanced artistry with authenticity. Fans have watched him evolve from a competitive dancer into a global entertainer — and now, they’ll see him take on the most personal choreography yet.

“Life isn’t always about perfect steps,” Hough reflected in a recent interview. “Sometimes, it’s about how you recover, how you connect, and how you love. I think that’s what being a parent is — finding beauty in the messiness of it all.”

With his characteristic warmth and optimism, Derek Hough is stepping into fatherhood with open arms — ready to trade in the sparkle of sequins for the glow of a nightlight. And if his track record is any indication, he’ll bring the same dedication, heart, and rhythm that’s defined every dance of his life.

As he said with a smile that morning on Good Morning America:

“This is the dance I’ve been waiting my whole life to learn.”