Derek Hough is set to celebrate his inaugural Father’s Day this June, marking a significant milestone in his life after welcoming his daughter, Everley Capri, with his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, in December 2022. The renowned professional dancer, aged 40, expressed his joy and excitement about fatherhood in a recent interview with PEOPLE at the Disney 2026 Upfront event held in New York City.
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Reflecting on his new role, Hough stated, “I’m loving being a dad,” labelling the experience as “the pinnacle” of his life. He shared his enthusiasm for this new chapter, calling fatherhood the best experience one could have. As he prepares for Father’s Day, he mused jokingly about the typical gifts associated with the occasion, quipping, “I’ll be happy with some socks and some ties with some new underwear,” before adding, “I have no idea, but I’m loving being a dad, so it’s the best.”
Hough’s journey into parenthood began when he and Hayley announced the arrival of their daughter through a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a black-and-white image capturing their hands cradling Everley’s tiny feet. The couple accompanied the touching photo with a caption that read, “Every step of our lives has led us to you. Our hearts have been cracked wide open and our world is forever changed.” This glimpse into their private joy underscores the profound impact their daughter has had on their lives.
Just weeks before their baby’s arrival, Hough expressed his anticipation for fatherhood during an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” He admitted that amidst the excitement, he sometimes momentarily forgets the impending milestone. “I just glance over there and I see her bump, [and] I’m like, ‘Whoa.’ I’m like, ‘I’m gonna be a dad,’” he recalled, illustrating the overwhelming joy that accompanies such a life-altering event.
The first-time father also shared his emotional response upon feeling Everley’s first kicks. He described the moment as transformative, noting, “It was that feeling that everybody talks about and describes, where all of a sudden everything became vivid and different.” Hough conveyed a sense of all-encompassing excitement, particularly as he embraces the unique emotions and experiences that come with being a dad.
As he navigates this new journey, Hough’s reflections reveal a deep appreciation for the role of parenthood, often overshadowing his accomplishments in his dancing career. He emphasised that while achieving success in his professional life has always been a priority, becoming a father is now his most cherished achievement. “That’s the top. Everything else is just a bonus, you know what I mean?” he articulated, highlighting the significance of family above all else.
Looking ahead to Father’s Day, Hough’s sentiments resonate with many new parents as they embark on their own journeys of parenthood. His candid approach to discussing the realities of fatherhood not only underscores the joy that comes with it but also serves to connect with others who may be navigating similar experiences.
As Derek Hough prepares for his first Father’s Day with Everley, his story serves as a reminder of the profound transformations parenthood can bring, echoing a sentiment shared by many new dads around the world. With his heart “forever changed,” Hough’s journey into fatherhood continues to unfold as he embraces each moment with love, excitement, and gratitude.