“We’ve Changed So Much” — DWTS Legends Mark Ballas & Derek Hough Share Raw, Tearjerking Photos from the Past

It took fans a moment to realize they were looking at photos of Dancing with the Starscast members Mark Ballas and Derek Hough when they saw Ballas' new post, with the dancer sharing major throwback photos of the two over the years.

Going from their childhood to the present, Ballas paid tribute to the two's long-lasting special friendship as he wished Hough a happy 40th birthday on May 17.

"WOW.. I can’t believe I’m writing this, it feels like yesterday we were 10 & 11 years old full of dreams & clueless to what life would bring," began Ballas' emotional message. "Then I blinked & I’m wishing you a happy 40th birthday. We have been through IT ALL together & calling you my best friend just isn’t enough. You are my brother."

Ballas went on, talking about how proud he is of Hough as he called him "one of the most selfless humans."

"You are easy to talk to, you are loyal & you take care of the ones you love. However… You are a colossal NIGHTMARE to FaceTime with 🤣🤣🤣. I know you know this already… but I’ve always got your back & whenever you need a Ride or Die I’ll always be there asking… ‘Who’s Car We Gonna Take?’ 🤝🏼," the caption continued.

Ballas concluded his sweet birthday tribute by saying, "They say ‘Life begins at 40’ So let’s keep this party going for a 100 more. Happy birthday D. Love you forever 👊🏼."

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by markballas (@markballas)

The post included photos of the friends' many different hairstyles and style phases, including a Christmas photo of them wearing matching plaid jackets and a later snap of Hough rocking long hair to his chin as he held a guitar while Ballas had spiky hair with a bleached piece at the front.

Hough wrote back in the comments, "These photos are everything my man. Love you."

His sister, Julianne Hough, said, "🥹😭 brothers," while Hough's wife, Hayley Erbert, added, "These photos 🥹."

Fans were equally emotional over the birthday tribute, with comments like, "Awwww brotherly love ❤️," "Truly no better duo!!!🔥🙌😍," and "This is so sweet 🥲."

Another fan said, "Such a beautiful tribute for @derekhough birthday ❤️ so wonderful that you two were to know each other in life. Such a wonderful person that was meant to be in your life. Paths crossed for a reason. ❤️."