As Derek Hough and his wife, Hayley Erbert, prepare to embark on a tour just months after welcoming their first child, the couple has carefully planned how to balance parenthood with life on the road.
Hough, 40, expressed uncertainty about touring in an interview with E! News published on November 21, admitting, “I don’t even know if I want to go on tour. I don’t know what I’m gonna feel, what I’m gonna experience. I don’t know how my life is gonna be.” Despite his hesitations, Erbert, 31, who underwent brain surgery for a cranial hematoma in December 2023, encouraged Hough to take on the challenge, drawing parallels to her resilience during her recovery.
While the couple is gearing up to kick off their Symphony of Dance: Encore tour in June 2026, with dates scheduled through August, they are approaching this new chapter cautiously. Hough emphasized the importance of prioritizing their health and family above all else, acknowledging that they are testing the waters with a baby in tow.
Drawing inspiration from fellow Dancing With the Stars pros Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Pasha Pashkov, and Daniella Karagach, who have toured with their children, Hough and Erbert sought advice on how to navigate work and family life successfully. Their co-stars praised the experience, emphasizing the joy of spending quality time with their children during the day and pursuing their passion on stage at night.
With their shared excitement about becoming parents, Hough and Erbert are looking forward to this new phase in their lives while continuing to pursue their love for performing. The couple, married since August 2023, announced Erbert’s pregnancy in July.
As they prepare to juggle parenthood with their tour, Hough and Erbert are determined to find a balance that works for their growing family. Their journey into this new chapter as parents reflects their commitment to each other and their dedication to their craft.
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.