Introduction
Derek Hough is a professional dancer who has been featured on ABC’s hit show Dancing With the Stars (DWTS) since 2007. He has gained a large following of fans all over the world due to his impressive dance skills and charismatic personality. But where is Derek Hough from originally? In this article, we explore Derek’s early life and career before DWTS, his cultural background, and his journey from Utah to Hollywood.
A Look at Derek Hough’s Early Life and Career Before Dancing With the Stars
Derek Hough was born in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1985. His parents, Bruce and Marianne Hough, were both professional ballroom dancers and dance instructors. Growing up, Derek was surrounded by dance and music. As he recalled in an interview with Dance Spirit magazine, “My parents had a dance studio, and I grew up around it. There was always music playing in the house or in the car.”
At age 11, Derek began taking formal dance lessons and quickly developed a passion for dance. He trained in multiple genres, including ballroom, Latin, and hip-hop. He also trained in gymnastics, which helped him develop the strength and flexibility necessary for difficult lifts and jumps. By the time he was 12 years old, he was competing professionally in ballroom dance competitions.
At age 16, Derek moved to London to train with the world-renowned Ballroom Dance Company. He competed in several international competitions, including the Blackpool Dance Festival, the world’s most prestigious ballroom dance competition. He won several titles and medals, including the World Junior Latin American Champion title in 2000.
Exploring Derek Hough’s Cultural Background and Heritage
Derek’s family history is deeply rooted in dance. His father, Bruce, is a five-time British National Ballroom Champion and a successful dance instructor. His mother, Marianne, was a former dancer and choreographer. Additionally, his aunt, Shirley Hough, is a former World Latin American Dance Champion.
In terms of ethnicity, Derek is half English and half German. His English roots can be traced back to his maternal grandfather, who was born in England. His German roots come from his paternal grandfather, who immigrated to the United States from Germany in the 1950s. Derek is also part Irish, French, Dutch, and Welsh.
Derek’s cultural background has had a significant influence on his dance style. He incorporates elements of traditional ballroom dance into his performances, such as the waltz, foxtrot, and quickstep. He is also heavily influenced by Latin styles, such as salsa, rumba, and cha-cha. His unique blend of styles has earned him praise from both fans and industry professionals alike.
Tracing Derek Hough’s Journey from Utah to Hollywood
After several years of success in the competitive dance world, Derek decided to pursue a professional dance career in Hollywood. At age 18, he moved to Los Angeles with his sister Julianne, who is also a professional dancer. Together, they took classes at various studios and worked as backup dancers for music videos and live shows.
Derek made his television debut in 2003, when he appeared as a background dancer on the hit show So You Think You Can Dance. The following year, he appeared as a contestant on the show, making it to the finals. Although he did not win the competition, his performance earned him recognition and praise from the judges.
How Derek Hough Became a Professional Dancer on Dancing With the Stars
In 2007, Derek auditioned for the fourth season of DWTS. He was paired with Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, and the two went on to win the competition. Derek continued to appear on the show for the next several seasons, earning four additional Mirrorball trophies and becoming the show’s longest-running professional dancer.
Derek’s success on DWTS has earned him numerous awards and accolades. In 2015, he was named the show’s first-ever Creative Director, taking on a more creative role behind the scenes. He also serves as a mentor and coach to the show’s celebrity competitors.
In addition to DWTS, Derek has starred in feature films, written a New York Times best-selling book, and launched a successful clothing line. He is also a sought-after choreographer, having created routines for some of the world’s top artists, including Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez, and Bruno Mars.
An Interview with Derek Hough About His Roots and Inspiration for Dance
In an interview with People magazine, Derek opened up about his roots and what inspired him to become a professional dancer. He said, “Growing up, my parents exposed me to so many different types of music and dance styles. I think that really shaped who I am today and how I approach dance. I want to keep pushing the boundaries and creating new styles.”
When asked about his cultural background and how it has impacted his dance style, Derek said, “I’m lucky to have a diverse heritage. It’s been very influential in my choreography and the way I move. I love to incorporate traditional ballroom movements and Latin rhythms into my routines.”
Finally, Derek shared some advice for aspiring dancers: “Be open to trying new things and don’t be afraid to take risks. Put in the hard work and never give up. Find a mentor and keep pushing yourself to be better every day.”
Conclusion
Derek Hough is a professional dancer and choreographer whose star continues to rise. He has achieved success in the competitive dance world and on DWTS, and his unique blend of styles has earned him praise from fans and industry professionals alike. His story illustrates the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance—and reminds us that anything is possible if you follow your dreams.
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