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Derek Hough is leaving “Dancing with the Stars.” The winningest pro in the history of the ABC competition revealed on Tuesday that he is hanging up his ballroom shoes to conquer Radio City Music Hall.
Hough says in a statement, “I am ecstatic that I’ll able to extend my passion for performing to the Great Stage of Radio City Music Hall in New York Spring Spectacular. Performing at Radio City Music Hall in a show that celebrates everything that is beloved about New York City is a dream.” He adds, “I can’t wait to show fans this production… It’s going to be like nothing they’ve seen me in before.”
He’ll be joined by Laura Benanti (who, like Hough, appeared on “Nashville” earlier this season), and the voices of Whoopi Goldberg, and Bella Thorne, along with some celebrity cameos. The show begins previews on March 12 and runs through May 3.
Unfortunately, Radio City’s gain is ABC’s loss, as Hough’s seven-week run as the male lead in the stage show overlaps with the upcoming 20th season of “Dancing with the Stars.” The temporary musical commitment, however, leaves open the possibility that Hough may return for the fall season, or any time thereafter. His sister Julianne left the series several seasons ago, only to return last year as a judge.
Hough made his first appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” in season 4, before joining as a pro in season 5. He’s won the Mirror Ball more times than any of his colleagues, including two separate back-to-back wins. He scored his five victories with Brooke Burke (season 7), Nicole Scherzinger (season 10), Jennifer Grey (season 11), Kellie Pickler (season 16), and Amber Riley (season 17). Hough previously skipped season 12 to film a movie. As Gossip Cop reported at the time, Hough most recently finished in fourth place on season 19 in December with Bethany Mota.
When the new season of “Dancing with the Stars” premieres in March, it will also be missing original pro Cheryl Burke, who, as Gossip Cop reported, is embarking on her own variety show. Meanwhile, head judge Len Goodman has indicated this will be his final season. Hough’s exit was first reported by People. Are you disappointed he won’t be on the new “Dancing with the Stars” season this spring?
