Derek Hough and his wife, Hayley Erbert, made a poignant return to the “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom on October 15, 2024. This performance marked Erbert’s first appearance on the show since her emergency brain surgery in December 2023. The couple delivered an emotional dance to Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” during the show’s “Dedication” night.
Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Hough recounted the moment Erbert suffered a severe brain bleed during a tour performance. She was rushed to the hospital and underwent an emergency craniectomy. Doctors warned that she might not survive and, if she did, could face significant impairments. Miraculously, Erbert not only recovered but also returned to the dance floor.
Their return to “Dancing with the Stars” was met with overwhelming support from the audience and fellow dancers. Hough expressed profound gratitude, stating, “For me, this dance is just a moment for us to be together again on stage, doing what we love. The fact that we’re able to dance again is nothing short of a miracle.”
This performance underscores the couple’s resilience and deep bond, inspiring many with their journey from a life-threatening ordeal back to the spotl
ight.
