Dancing With the Stars Judge Derek Hough Suffers a Deep Personal Loss

Derek Hough is beloved for his work on Dancing With the Stars as a dancer, choreographer, and judge. Fans stood by him when his wife Hayley Erbert underwent emergency surgery last December. Now, his many fans are supporting him as he goes through a personal loss.

Grandma Was a “10”

“Losing Grandma feels like losing a part of our family’s soul,” Hough posted on Instagram along with a photo of his beloved grandmother, Romaine Heaton, who passed away at the age of 94.

“She was the one with endless stories, each one teaching us something new or just making us double over with laughter. Her stories were almost unbelievable, igniting our imaginations,” Hough continued.

“Her love was the kind that made you feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter what.
As we say goodbye, I’m reminded of all the beautiful moments we shared, and somehow, it feels like she’s still here, guiding us, loving us,” he added.

“Grandma, you’ve given us so much to remember, to cherish, and to pass on,” Hough added. “We miss you terribly, but we’re grateful for every second we got to spend with you. So long… for now you little stinker. You’ll always be in our hearts, making us smile. We love you.”

Hough’s DWTS pals are weighing in with condolences. Dance pro, Artem Chigvintsev wrote: “So sorry to hear about your grandma.”

Jenna Johnson, another dance pro on the show, posted two heart emojis to express her sympathy.

Soap Hub sends sincere condolences to Derek Hough, his sister Julianne Hough, co-host of DWTS, and Heaton’s entire family and loved ones.