Current Status: Is Julianne Hough Currently on Dancing with the Stars?
As of 2025, Julianne Hough is not a regular competing pro on Dancing with the Stars. She last appeared as a pro in season 29 in 2020 and has not been announced as a competing professional in any season since. She has, however, returned periodically in special and all-star formats, with notable appearances in season 30 and DWTS Live tours. She remains affiliated with the show through partnerships, specials, and her established brand as a top pro, but she is not part of the current season’s pro lineup.
Julianne Hough’s DWTS Timeline and Status
Julianne Hough joined Dancing with the Stars as a professional dancer in 2007 and quickly became one of the show’s most recognized names. Over the years, she transitioned into a multifaceted role that includes competitor, judge, choreographer, and media personality. Understanding her evolving relationship with the show clarifies expectations about her current presence. The timeline below highlights key moments that define her status with DWTS.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Professional debut | Season 4 (2007) | Network announcement/dance recap |
| First win | Season 5 (2007) with Emmitt Smith | Official results episode |
| Notable recent appearance | Season 29 (2020) runner-up | ABC season recap |
| All-star/invited return | Season 30 (2021), partnered with David Ross | ABC casting announcement |
| Role beyond competing | Choreographer, mentor, and judge on DWTS and related events | Press releases and talk show interviews |
| Live tour participation | DWTS Live tours (multiple years) | Tour press and ticket listings |
Seasons as a Competing Professional
- Season 4 (2007): Introduced as a pro; paired with celebrity partners through the season.
- Season 5 (2007): Won with Emmitt Smith, establishing her as a top competitor.
- Season 29 (2020): Returned as a pro and finished as runner-up.
Non-Competing Appearances and Roles
- Season 30 (2021): Invited as a returning pro, partnered with David Ross.
- Specials and all-star formats: Appeared in events and spin-offs that highlight legacy pros.
- Judge and mentor roles: Participated in live shows, off-camera coaching, and promotional segments.
- DWTS Live tours: Performed in arena tours as a featured pro, extending her reach beyond weekly episodes.
How Julianne Hough Is Involved With DWTS Today
Julianne Hough remains a recognizable name associated with Dancing with the Stars, but her involvement today is primarily ceremonial, promotional, and occasional rather than that of a competing pro each season. She participates in specials, milestone seasons, and live events when scheduled, while also focusing on choreography, brand partnerships, and personal ventures. Fans can expect her to appear periodically for anniversary seasons, all-star casts, or special events, but not as a full-time professional on the weekly competition slate.
Comparison: Julianne Hough vs Other Longtime DWTS Pros
Julianne Hough’s trajectory reflects a blend of consistent excellence and selective returns, similar to other veteran pros who balance competition, choreography, and media duties. The table below compares her participation style with two peers who also appear intermittently rather than every season.
| Pro | Typical Role on DWTS | Recent Notable Season | Current Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Julianne Hough | Pro (competing), choreographer, mentor | Season 29 (2020) runner-up | Special appearances; DWTS Live; select choreography |
| Derek Hough | Pro (competing), choreographer | Season 30 winner (2021); frequent competitor | Active competing when scheduled; choreography; judge for live rounds |
| Cheryl Burke | Season 30 (2021); multiple seasons | Periodic competing; mentorship; media projects |
Why Her Status Changes Cause Confusion
Julianne Hough’s high profile and periodic returns create moments where it appears she is back weekly, when in reality she is selectively booked. Highlights that contribute to this include:
- All-star and special seasons that cast legacy pros for nostalgia-driven storytelling.
- Prominent live tour slots that keep her visible between regular seasons.
- Her ongoing role as a choreographer and mentor, which keeps her name attached to the show even when she is not competing.
- Social media campaigns and promotional clips that emphasize her involvement without clarifying the scope of her participation.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Going forward, Julianne Hough is likely to remain an influential figure associated with Dancing with the Stars, but not as a guaranteed weekly competitor. She will probably appear in anniversary seasons, all-star casts, and live events when her schedule and the show’s creative direction align. If you are wondering whether she is on in a given season, the simplest check is to review the official cast announcements from ABC or the show’s social channels before the season premiere.
Key Takeaways
- Julianne Hough is not currently a competing pro on the weekly DWTS schedule as of 2025.
- She last competed as a pro in season 29 (2020) and returned for select seasons and specials.
- She remains active through choreography, mentorship, DWTS Live tours, and occasional appearances.
- Check official ABC announcements for precise casting in any given season.