Why These Pros Left Dancing With The Stars

May 2024 · 2 minute read

Julianne Hough has quite an interesting history with "Dancing with the Stars." She joined the program in Season 4 and wasted no time getting her first Mirrorball Trophy. She finished in first place with her celebrity partner, Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno. Not unlike Cheryl Burke, Hough won back-to-back seasons, bringing her season 5 partner, race car driver Hélio Castroneves, to the winner's circle, too.

However, Hough left the show in 2009. "I am appreciative to be taking this coming season of 'Dancing with the Stars' off to focus on my other career paths like touring in support of my album and recording my next one," she told People in a statement at the time. Hough returned to the ballroom in 2014, but in a much different role; She joined the judges table to offer her critiques.

Hough was a "DWTS" judge for five seasons before again leaving in 2017 to focus on her other passions, such as acting. In 2023, after six years away, Hough was offered the role of co-host, joining Alfonso Ribeiro to lead the live shows. "The door has always been open for me to join or come back in any capacity because 'Dancing with the Stars' is my family. It's where I feel the most myself and the most at home," she told Variety ahead of Season 32. "I am my happiest self when I'm surrounded by my family. This show is family."

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