At the glamorous judges’ table of the long-running dance competition “Dancing with the Stars,” Derek Hough finds himself in esteemed company. Sitting beside original judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, Hough reflects on the honor of being part of the show’s legacy two decades after its debut on ABC.
The scene is set with a nostalgic Instagram post from Inaba, urging a younger self to seize the opportunity to be a judge on the iconic show. Hough, a former pro dancer turned permanent judge, acknowledges the significance of sharing the panel with the OGs Inaba and Tonioli, praising the show’s continuity in having the same judges from day one.
Despite a brief moment of controversy where Hough found himself at odds with Inaba during a live episode, he expresses gratitude at the end of the season for the chance to work alongside the original judges. Inaba and Tonioli have been fixtures on the DWTS judges’ table since its inception, alongside the late Len Goodman, who passed away in 2023.
Hough, known for his multiple mirrorball trophies won as a dancer, downplays comparisons to Goodman’s judging style, acknowledging the irreplaceable nature of his predecessor’s iconic phrases. With humor, Hough recalls a throwback clip from his early days on the show, where he jokes about finally being able to speak his mind to Inaba and Tonioli now that he’s a judge himself.
In the ever-evolving world of dance competitions, “Dancing with the Stars” continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of talent and personalities. The show’s enduring success lies not only in its iconic judges but also in the timeless joy of dance shared by all involved.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.