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Derek Hough and his wife, Hayley Erbert, have overcome numerous challenges together, including a significant health event where Hayley underwent a craniectomy. This experience tested their bond but ultimately strengthened their relationship, and now they are joyfully anticipating the arrival of their first child together! Their journey reflects resilience and deep love, showcasing how they support one another through life’s trials.
Derek and Hayley are both highly skilled dancers who first crossed paths when Hayley joined the MOVE Live Tour featuring Derek and Julianne Hough in 2014. They reunited when Hayley became part of the season 21 troupe on Dancing With the Stars, during which Derek was partnered with Bindi Irwin, leading to another victorious season. Their romantic relationship blossomed shortly after, although they kept it private until 2017. Beyond her talents as a dancer, Hayley is also an avid nature enthusiast, showcasing her diverse interests and talents.
Continue reading to discover more fascinating facts about Derek Hough’s wife, Hayley Erbert!
Discover Hayley Erbert’s Southwestern Roots
Hayley Erbert was born and raised in the vibrant state of Texas. She has one older brother, Collin Erbert, who has been featured in several charming throwback photos shared by Hayley on Instagram, showcasing their close sibling bond. While Collin has chosen to maintain a low profile away from the limelight, he graduated from college in 2015. His interest in a quieter lifestyle is evident from his social media presence. Nevertheless, he has had memorable encounters with celebrities, such as a 2016 post where he humorously shared a photo with Julianne Hough during her appearance in Fox’s Grease Live!, jokingly claiming it as his phone background.
Unveiling Hayley Erbert’s Pageant Journey
Hayley Erbert gained significant attention as a finalist on the 10th season of So You Think You Can Dance, which served as a springboard for her professional dancing career. In addition to her dance aspirations, she has also pursued her passion for pageantry, achieving the title of first runner-up at the 2013 Miss Kansas Teen USA pageant. Browsing through her Instagram, one may not immediately associate her with pageantry, as her earlier posts, dating back to 2012, predominantly highlight her dance achievements and social life with friends. The sole image of her donning a crown appears in a celebratory post for her 22nd birthday, where she quoted Taylor Swift, saying, “I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22.”
Exploring Hayley Erbert’s Athletic Talents Beyond Dance
Hayley Erbert is not just a talented dancer; she has consistently showcased her athleticism beyond the dance floor. She frequently shares photos engaging in various water sports, such as wake surfing and traditional surfing, highlighting her adventurous spirit. In 2021, she documented her surfing attempts, which, while not yielding a standing shot, demonstrated her determination and enthusiasm for the sport. Additionally, a captivating 2017 photo of her wake surfing conveys an impression that with a little practice, anyone could excel at it. Her love for physical challenges reflects her dynamic life and passion for staying active.
Hayley Erbert’s Profound Connection with Nature
Hayley Erbert’s affinity for nature is evident through her numerous posts celebrating the great outdoors. Her deep connection with nature was beautifully expressed in a carousel of photos she shared on Earth Day in 2022, where she reflected, “How lucky are we that we get to call this place home?! Happy Earth Day!” The visuals included heartwarming moments such as a selfie with a gorilla, swimming with dolphins, enjoying scenic waterfalls, walking on picturesque sand dunes, and marveling at stunning sunsets. In addition, she posted delightful memories from a 2021 safari in Kenya with Derek, joyful moments in Joshua Tree National Park, and exhilarating scuba diving experiences in Hawaii. Her unwavering love for animals has been a consistent theme in her social media since 2012, illustrating her passion for wildlife and the environment.
Meet Hayley Erbert: A Caring Pet Parent
Hayley Erbert may not have children of her own yet, but she is a dedicated pet mom to a delightful mix of animals! Alongside Derek Hough, she cares for two dogs and two cats. The canine companions are named Luna and Romie, while the feline friends are Palo and Lily. In October 2020, Hayley shared a heartwarming photo of her cats playing, with Romie eagerly seeking cuddles and Luna observing the playful antics. She described this lively scene as perfectly encapsulating her life, expressing that she wouldn’t change it for the world.
