Derek Hough’s ‘DWTS’ 20-Year Tribute Has Fans in Their Feelings

As “Dancing with the Stars” marks its 20th anniversary, Derek Hough is looking back on two decades of dance, growth and gratitude. The six-time Mirrorball champion and current judge celebrated the milestone with a heartfelt Instagram post, reflecting on how the show helped shape his life and the lives of so many involved — both on and off camera.

“Wow! 20 years of Dancing with the Stars, what an incredible journey,” Hough captioned a reel that featured throwback clips of his time on the show. “This show means so much to me, and to all the people… who have poured their hearts into making it what it is today.”

Hough, who joined the show as a professional dancer at age 22, continued: “Hearing stories of parents, kids, grandparents all coming together to watch and bond over the show is a reminder that this is more than just a dance competition; it’s a shared experience that unites us in so many ways.” The post quickly drew reactions from the “DWTS” community, with the official show account commenting, “What an incredible journey!” and ABC writing, “It’s been an honor to watch along the way.”

Hough Calls on Hardcore Fans to Revisit Their Favorite DWTS Moments

Shortly after his tribute post, Hough posted a follow-up video selfie addressed to longtime fans. In the caption, he encouraged “hardcore” viewers to dig up memorable — and even forgotten — moments from the show’s past and tag him so he could repost them to his Instagram Story.

“Let’s see who can find some deep cuts. Unforgettable, or even forgettable moments that we need to remember,” he wrote. “Let’s all go on a little trip down memory lane together, celebrating this iconic show.”

Fans quickly responded with their favorite dances, including his freestyles with Kellie Pickler and tributes to the late Len Goodman. One user commented, “Any dance that you did that was the Argentine tango. Those are always my favorite moments!” while another wrote, “Your tribute to Len and dancing with your wife are my number 1s.”

The interaction showcased the show’s lasting impact and the tight-knit relationship between the cast and its audience. “It’s a true blessing,” Hough added in his earlier post. “Especially considering the initial doubts from so many who thought it wouldn’t work. Now, 20 years later, it’s thriving, bigger and better than ever.”

Hough’s 20-Year Journey from Pro to Judge

Derek Hough began competing on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2007 and quickly became one of the series’ most celebrated professional dancers. He holds the record for most Mirrorball wins with six, earned alongside celebrity partners Brooke Burke, Nicole Scherzinger, Jennifer Grey, Kellie Pickler, Amber Riley, and Bindi Irwin. After stepping away from competing in 2016, Hough returned to the ballroom as a judge in 2020.

Reflecting on his journey, Hough has spoken about how the show changed his life and helped shift public perception of dance. Having faced bullying as a child for being a dancer, he said “DWTS” gave him a platform to be seen as an “artistic athlete” and helped elevate dance into the mainstream.

“Who would have thought a Latin ballroom dancing show would become the largest dance show in the world, spanning over 40 countries and evolving into one of the biggest entertainment shows ever,” he wrote in his anniversary post.