How Old Is Derek From Dancing With The Stars

If you’ve ever watched Dancing With the Stars, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How old is Derek Hough, really?” It’s a question that pops up because the guy seems to defy time. He’s been spinning and lifting partners on the ballroom floor for over a decade, yet he looks like he just stepped out of a music video.

So, let’s settle it: Derek Hough is 39 years old (born May 17, 1985). Yes, thirty-nine. And no, that’s not a typo. He’s been a professional dancer on the show since season five, which aired way back in 2007. That makes him one of the most seasoned—and still one of the most energetic—pros in the lineup.

Now here’s the fun part. Why does his age matter? Because watching a 39-year-old keep up with (and often out-dance) twenty-something celebrities is pure entertainment. You see him lift a partner like she weighs a feather, then spin into a paso doble that would leave a bull dizzy. It’s like he’s a human battery that never runs out.

The secret? Derek isn’t just a dancer—he’s a movement scientist. He’s trained in ballroom, Latin, salsa, and even acrobatics from a young age. But the real magic is how he teaches his celebrity partners. He breaks down complex steps into bite-sized moves, then somehow makes them look effortless. It’s a masterclass in patience and energy.

“Derek doesn’t just teach you to dance; he makes you believe you’re a star.” — A former partner on the show.

And here’s the twist: Derek is also a judge now on Dancing With the Stars. So he’s not just the guy in the shiniest shirt—he’s the one with the sharpest eye. He can spot a misplaced heel or a missed cue from across the room, even while he’s cheering you on. It’s like having your biggest fan and your strictest coach in one person.

Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert perform on 'DWTS' after her health scare

But let’s be real: age is just a number when you’re having this much fun. Derek Hough at 39 dances with the same joy he had at 22. He still wears those sparkly jackets, still throws his partner into a lift without breaking a sweat, and still claps like a kid on Christmas after a good routine. It’s contagious.

So, whether you’re 15 or 55, watching him is a reminder that staying active and curious keeps you young. He’s proof that you don’t have to stop moving just because you hit your late thirties. In fact, he makes 39 look like the new 21.

Derek Hughes Dancing With Stars

If you haven’t watched Dancing With the Stars lately, give it a shot. Look for Derek’s choreography—try to spot the lift that looks impossible, or the quickstep that feels like pure caffeine. Then ask yourself: does he really have gray hairs, or is that just glitter?

The answer? It’s probably glitter. And maybe a little bit of wisdom. But mostly, it’s the joy of a man who still loves to dance, one spin at a time. So go ahead, google “Derek Hough age” one more time. You’ll smile, because 39 never looked so good—or so light on its feet.