Derek Hough and his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, celebrated a significant milestone in their lives with the arrival of their first child, a daughter named Everley Capri, in December 2025. The couple, who tied the knot in August 2023, shared the joyful news of their expanding family via an Instagram video in July 2025. The announcement included heartfelt sentiments, stating, “We can’t believe the biggest thing to happen to us could be so small.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/derek-julianne-hough-051326-ffaebc5332b6458d8063749c77278ab6.jpg)
In a recent appearance at the Disney 2026 Upfront event in New York City, Derek’s sister, Julianne Hough, reflected on her brother’s new role as a father. The 37-year-old, who is known for her work on “Dancing with the Stars,” expressed her admiration for Derek’s transformation into parenthood. “It’s honestly my favourite version of who he is,” she shared exclusively with PEOPLE. Julianne has been touched to see Derek evolve into not just a husband, but a devoted father as well.
Derek, now 40, echoed similar sentiments about Julianne’s role as an aunt. He praised her involvement in Everley’s life and remarked on the joy he feels witnessing Julianne in this new light. “She’s going to be the best aunt in the world. My girl is going to get spoiled — that’s for sure — from Aunt Julianne,” Derek said with enthusiasm during a red-carpet event at Disney’s Toast to Television in Los Angeles.
The bond between the siblings was evident as they both navigated this new chapter. Julianne spoke candidly about how witnessing Derek step into fatherhood has ignited a longing within her for motherhood. In a recent interview on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” she noted that her experiences as a young aunt to her older sisters’ children have all contributed to her current feelings. “I became an aunt at 11 years old, but this time I’m seeing it through different eyes,” she explained, revealing her readiness to embrace motherhood.
It is evident that the Hough family is enveloped in joy following the arrival of little Everley. Julianne’s support for Derek and her excitement about her brother’s journey into parenthood highlights the strong family bond they share. As aunt and uncle, they both seem eager to create cherished memories with Everley.
Derek also recently shared his musings about fatherhood, emphasising the delight he feels in bonding with his newborn daughter. He expressed the emotion of watching his family grow and how special it is to have Julianne alongside him during this experience. The love and support the siblings have for each other underscore their close-knit family.
As the couple adjusts to their new roles as parents, public appearances provide glimpses into their evolving family dynamic. The Hough family continues to capture the public’s attention not just through their professional achievements, but also through their personal milestones.
Everley Capri is sure to thrive in a nurturing environment surrounded by a loving family, and both Derek and Julianne appear committed to being the best siblings and aunts possible. As they embark on this journey, fans and followers will undoubtedly celebrate alongside them, witnessing the tender moments and milestones that await the Hough family.
Through their public disclosures and sincere comments, both Derek and Julianne demonstrate that the joys of family extend beyond just professional accolades, enhancing the depth of their relationships as they navigate the beautiful complexity of parenthood and family ties.