Hayley Erbert Hough is a celebrated professional dancer, performer, and public figure known for her artistry, resilience, and life alongside fellow dancer Derek Hough. From early beginnings in Kansas to life in Hollywood, Hayley’s journey has been shaped by passion, hard work, personal struggle, and joyful achievement. This detailed biography explores her life, career, milestones, family, and the legacy she continues to build.
Early Life and Hometown Roots
Hayley Erbert was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas, where her love for dance took root at a very young age. Immersed in performing arts from childhood, she honed her skills across multiple dance styles, from jazz and contemporary to ballet and hip‑hop. Growing up in the American Midwest, Hayley balanced rigorous training with school commitments, nurturing both discipline and creativity.
Her early exposure to dance competitions set a firm foundation for her future career in the entertainment industry. Even from her first steps on stage, it was evident that Hayley possessed a rare combination of technical skill and expressive flair, the hallmark of a professional performer.
Discovering Dance: The Start of a Passion
Dance was more than a hobby for Hayley — it was her calling. By the time she reached adolescence, she was already competing professionally and gaining recognition within dance circles. This early devotion helped her secure pivotal opportunities that would define her career.
Her training was not limited to one genre; rather, she mastered a broad spectrum of dance forms, which equipped her for the diverse demands of a professional stage and screen career. This versatility later became instrumental in her success within television, live tours, and collaborative projects.
Breakthrough on So You Think You Can Dance
One of Hayley’s earliest major career milestones came when she competed on Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance. At just 18, she reached the top six, impressing judges and viewers with her technical ability and artistic presence.
This platform exposed her to industry professionals and helped solidify her reputation as an up‑and‑coming dancer with unique potential. Her performances on the show exemplified her ability to captivate audiences and adapt to challenging choreographic demands.
Transition to Television: Dancing with the Stars
Hayley’s visibility increased dramatically when she joined the Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) troupe in Season 21. As a troupe dancer, she performed in numerous routines alongside celebrity competitors and professional partners.
While not a lead pro on the show initially, Hayley’s presence reinforced her status as a reliable, versatile performer capable of engaging live audiences and television viewers alike. Over multiple seasons, she became a recognizable figure within the DWTS community.
Touring and Stage Performances with DWTS
Beyond television, Hayley expanded her repertoire by participating in several DWTS live tours. These stage performances put her in front of enthusiastic fans across the United States, bridging the gap between TV fame and live entertainment credibility.
Tours such as Move Live! and Symphony of Dance allowed her to dance alongside highly regarded professionals and broaden her performance resume. These experiences helped shape her into a well‑rounded performer equipped for large‑scale productions.
Film and Music Video Appearances
In addition to stage and TV work, Hayley has appeared in various films and music projects, often showcasing her dancing prowess in short films or performance shorts. Credits include appearances in productions such as Rob Cantor: Shia LaBeouf Live and Turning Page.
These projects demonstrate her adaptability and willingness to explore dance beyond traditional performance venues, allowing her to reach fans beyond live shows and reality TV formats.
Meeting Derek Hough: A Partnership Begins
Hayley first crossed paths with Derek Hough in 2014 while working as a dancer on the Move Live! tour led by Derek and his sister Julianne Hough. Though introduced by their professional collaboration, a personal connection soon developed.
Their romantic journey began not long after this initial meeting, though they maintained a degree of privacy in the early years of the relationship. Over time, their bond grew stronger, merging two passionate artists with shared values and professional goals.
Public Announcement of Their Relationship
Hayley and Derek eventually made their relationship public in 2017, revealing to fans that their connection extended well beyond the rehearsal floor. Their posts on social media showcased heartfelt moments of partnership and shared experiences.
Over the following years, the couple became one of the entertainment world’s most admired dance pairs — respected for both their individual talents and their supportive, affectionate relationship.
Engagement and Wedding Celebration
After years of dating, Derek proposed in June 2022, and the couple delighted fans with the announcement of their engagement. The proposal was a romantic moment symbolizing a deeper commitment beyond their shared dance legacy.
They soon married on August 26, 2023, in a heart‑warming ceremony in Monterey County, California. Their wedding spanned multiple days of festivities, reflecting both tradition and the couple’s dynamic creative spirit.
Life as Newlyweds and Shared Adventures
Post‑wedding, the couple balanced life on and off the stage, often sharing snapshots of their life adventures with fans. From red carpet appearances to joint creative projects, Hayley and Derek’s partnership continued to blossom.
Their relationship became a source of inspiration for many, illustrating how two dedicated professionals can uplift each other in demanding creative fields while enjoying life’s milestones together.
Health Scare and Courageous Recovery
In December 2023, Hayley encountered a critical health emergency when she suffered a cranial hematoma during the DWTS tour, necessitating emergency brain surgery (craniectomy). This harrowing experience momentarily halted her professional momentum.
Yet, her recovery became a testament to her resilience. With dedicated medical support and emotional encouragement from Derek, she triumphantly returned to the stage in Spring 2024, earning admiration across the dance community.
Return to Performance and Continued Passion
After her recovery, Hayley rejoined the Symphony of Dance tour, performing with courage and renewed energy. Her comeback became one of the most memorable narratives of the tour, celebrating her strength and deep passion for dance.
Her performances were greeted with standing ovations, underscoring not just technical skill, but emotional connection with audiences — an equal measure of artistry and personal depth.
Expecting Their First Child
In July 2025, Hayley and Derek joyfully announced they were expecting their first child together, sharing sonogram photos in an emotional social media post. This announcement thrilled fans worldwide and highlighted a new chapter in their personal lives.
Becoming Parents: Everley Capri Hough
On December 29, 2025, Hayley Erbert Hough and Derek welcomed their daughter Everley Capri Hough. Parents since late 2025, the couple shared the news with heartfelt social media photos showing their newborn’s tiny feet and expressing everlasting love and gratitude.
Artistic Legacy and Influence
Hayley’s influence extends beyond her own performances. She continues to mentor younger dancers through workshops and collaborative efforts, emphasizing technical excellence, storytelling, and artistic expression.
Her journey — from a young talent in Kansas to a highly respected figure in dance — illustrates the power of dedication and personal authenticity in the performing arts.
Dance Style and Signature Techniques
Hayley’s dance is characterized by precision, fluidity, and emotional depth. Her experience in diverse genres allows her to adapt seamlessly across styles — a quality that both audiences and choreographers admire.
Whether on television, stage, or live tours, her performances reflect technical mastery informed by authenticity — a blend that resonates deeply with her growing fan base.
Social Media Presence and Public Engagement
Hayley actively engages with fans on platforms like Instagram, sharing moments from her personal life, creative work, and life with her family. Her social presence enhances her connection with followers, offering uplifting glimpses of both triumphs and everyday experiences.
Future Projects and Aspirations
As an evolving artist, Hayley continues exploring opportunities in dance, choreography, and performance. Her future may include expanded roles in television, broader creative collaborations, and initiatives that inspire the next generation of dancers.
Conclusion: The Story of Hayley Erbert Hough
Hayley Erbert Hough stands as a remarkable example of artistic resilience, talent, and personal growth. From her early days in Kansas to becoming a celebrated professional dancer, devoted partner, and now parent, her journey is filled with passion, perseverance, and inspiring achievements.
Her story continues to unfold, marked by artistic evolution and meaningful contributions to the world of dance — a testament to her legacy as a performer and public figure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Hayley Erbert Hough?
Hayley Erbert Hough is a professional dancer known for Dancing with the Stars, touring performances, and her work with Derek Hough.
2. What is Hayley Erbert’s dance background?
She began dancing at age 3, competed on So You Think You Can Dance and performed in live tours and TV productions.
3. When did Hayley Erbert marry Derek Hough?
She married Derek Hough on August 26, 2023 in Monterey County, California.
4. Has Hayley Erbert faced major health challenges?
Yes — in December 2023 she underwent emergency brain surgery due to a cranial hematoma and made a strong recovery.
5. Do Hayley and Derek have children?
Yes — their daughter Everley Capri Hough was born on December 29, 2025.
6. What notable tours has Hayley Erbert performed on?
She performed on Move Live!, Symphony of Dance, and other DWTS tours.
7. What defines Hayley Erbert’s artistic style?
Her dance is known for technical precision, expressive emotion, and versatility across genres.
