Derek Hough, the Emmy-winning dancer and Dancing with the Stars judge, and his wife, Hayley Erbert Hough, a talented dancer and former DWTS troupe member, have captured fans’ hearts with both their performances and their inspiring personal journey. In December 2023, Hayley faced a life-threatening health scare when she suffered a cranial hematoma during a tour performance, requiring an emergency craniectomy that left fans and loved ones fearing for her life.
Against all odds, Hayley’s resilience and determination have shone through, as she not only recovered but returned triumphantly to the stage, continued touring with Derek, and celebrated their first wedding anniversary. In December 2025, the couple welcomed their first child, marking a joyful milestone after a period of immense challenge and hope.
Hayley Erbert’s Life Before the Health Scare
Before her health scare, Hayley Erbert had already made a name for herself as a talented dancer and a valued member of the Dancing with the Stars troupe. She toured extensively with Derek Hough, impressing audiences with her grace, energy, and stage presence. Outside of performing, Hayley built a strong professional reputation, earning respect in the dance community. Her growing career and partnership with Derek set the stage for both personal and professional milestones before her sudden medical emergency.
Early Career and Dancing Achievements
Hayley Erbert began her career as a skilled dancer, quickly gaining recognition as a member of the Dancing with the Stars troupe. Known for her precision, energy, and stage presence, she toured extensively with the show, performing alongside some of the biggest names in dance. Her collaboration with Derek Hough on various tours showcased her talent and versatility, earning her a loyal fan base and establishing her as a respected performer in the dance community.
Relationship Timeline with Derek Hough
Hayley met Derek Hough in 2014 during one of his tours, and the two quickly formed a strong personal and professional bond. Their connection blossomed into romance, and after years of dating, Derek proposed. The couple celebrated their love with a beautiful wedding in August 2023, beginning a new chapter together just months before the life-changing events that would soon challenge them both.
The Life-Threatening Health Scare
In December 2023, Hayley Erbert Hough faced a terrifying health emergency during a tour performance, becoming disoriented and suffering seizures on stage. She was rushed to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed her with a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel. An emergency craniectomy was performed to relieve pressure on her brain, and doctors warned Derek Hough that her survival was uncertain. The incident was a life-changing moment, testing both Hayley’s strength and the couple’s resilience.
December 2023 Incident
In December 2023, Hayley Erbert Hough experienced a terrifying medical emergency while performing on tour with Derek Hough. She became disoriented on stage and suffered full seizures, forcing the team to rush her to the hospital immediately. The moment shocked fans and colleagues alike, as the situation quickly escalated into a life-threatening crisis. Derek later described the fear and uncertainty he felt, fearing he might lose his wife in an instant.
Diagnosis and Surgery
At the hospital, doctors diagnosed Hayley with a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel, a condition where blood collects inside the skull and puts dangerous pressure on the brain. She underwent an emergency craniectomy, a surgery that removed part of her skull to relieve pressure. Doctors warned Derek that survival was uncertain and even if she lived, long-term effects could impact her physical and cognitive abilities. Despite the grim prognosis, Hayley’s resilience and determination became key to her recovery.
Recovery and Comeback
After her emergency craniectomy, Hayley Erbert Hough underwent a second surgery to replace the portion of her skull that had been removed, marking a major milestone in her recovery. Derek Hough stayed by her side, providing emotional support and sharing updates on Instagram throughout the process. Hayley expressed deep gratitude for her medical team, her husband, and fans who sent prayers and encouragement. Her resilience, positive mindset, and determination helped her regain strength and inspired many on their own journeys.
Second Surgery and Skull Implant
After her emergency craniectomy, Hayley Erbert Hough underwent a second surgery known as a cranioplasty to replace the portion of her skull that had been removed. This procedure was a critical step in her physical recovery, allowing her to regain strength and stability. The successful operation marked a major milestone in her healing journey and gave both Hayley and Derek renewed hope for the future.
Emotional Support and Resilience
Throughout her recovery, Derek Hough remained a constant source of support, documenting updates on Instagram and sharing moments of their journey with fans. Hayley expressed immense gratitude for the medical team, her husband, and the outpouring of love from supporters. She credited a positive mindset, resilience, and staying present for helping her navigate the emotional and physical challenges of recovery. Their bond and determination became an inspiration to many facing similar struggles.
Return to Dance
After months of recovery, Hayley Erbert Hough made a triumphant return to dancing, joining Derek Hough on the “Symphony of Dance” tour. Her comeback marked a major milestone, showing her physical strength and determination. In October 2024, she returned to the “Dancing with the Stars” stage, revisiting the site of her accident for an emotional performance. Her resilience and courage inspired fans, proving she could overcome even life-threatening challenges.
Touring Again with Derek
After months of recovery, Hayley Erbert Hough made a triumphant return to the dance floor, joining Derek Hough on the “Symphony of Dance” tour. Her comeback marked an important milestone, demonstrating both her physical recovery and unwavering determination. Fans and fellow dancers celebrated her return, impressed by her strength and dedication to her craft.
Dancing with the Stars Comeback
In October 2024, Hayley made an emotional return to the “Dancing with the Stars” ballroom, revisiting the very stage where her accident occurred. She performed alongside Derek in a heartfelt routine, symbolizing triumph over her health scare. The performance highlighted her resilience and inspired viewers, showing that even life-threatening challenges could be overcome with courage and support.
Family Life and Milestones
After her recovery, Hayley Erbert Hough and Derek Hough celebrated their first wedding anniversary in August 2024, reflecting on a year of love and resilience. Their bond grew stronger through challenges, showing the power of support and devotion. In December 2025, they welcomed their first child, Everley Capri Hough, a joyful milestone for the couple. This moment highlighted hope, family, and the triumph of love after overcoming life-threatening obstacles.
First Wedding Anniversary
After Hayley’s recovery, Derek and Hayley Erbert Hough celebrated their first wedding anniversary on August 26, 2024, reflecting on a year filled with challenges and triumphs. Their journey highlighted the strength of their bond, showing that love and support can help overcome even the toughest obstacles. Fans celebrated with them as they shared heartfelt messages and moments from their special day.
Welcoming Their First Baby
In December 2025, the couple welcomed their first child, Everley Capri Hough, marking another joyful milestone in their lives. The birth symbolized hope, resilience, and the power of family after overcoming Hayley’s life-threatening health scare. Both Derek and Hayley shared their gratitude and excitement on social media, inspiring fans with their story of love, recovery, and new beginnings.
Lessons from Their Journey
Hayley Erbert Hough and Derek Hough’s experience highlights the incredible power of love and support during life’s most difficult moments. From her sudden health scare to the long road of recovery, Derek’s unwavering presence and Hayley’s resilience show how couples can face challenges together. Their journey is a testament to patience, understanding, and standing by each other through hardship, proving that love can truly conquer even the toughest obstacles.
Beyond their personal story, the couple inspires fans with hope and motivation. They remind us to be grateful for life’s moments and to stay fully present, even amid uncertainty. By sharing their struggles and triumphs, Hayley and Derek encourage others to find strength in adversity and appreciate the support and love surrounding them. Their story is both uplifting and a lesson in resilience, faith, and gratitude.
Final Thoughts
Hayley Erbert Hough’s sudden health scare in December 2023 was a life-changing moment that tested her strength and the bond she shares with Derek Hough. From emergency surgery to a long recovery and eventual return to dance, Hayley’s journey has been a powerful story of resilience, courage, and determination. Her ability to overcome such a critical situation shows how love, support, and perseverance can guide someone through even the darkest times.
Today, Hayley and Derek celebrate meaningful family milestones, including their first wedding anniversary and the birth of their daughter, Everley Capri Hough. Their story is a heartwarming reminder that life’s challenges can be met with hope, gratitude, and unwavering love. Together, they continue to inspire fans while cherishing every moment of their joyful, resilient life.
FAQ’s
What happened to Derek Hough’s wife in 2023?
In December 2023, Hayley Erbert Hough became disoriented during a performance and suffered seizures. She was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with a cranial hematoma from a burst blood vessel, requiring emergency surgery.
What is a craniectomy, and why did Hayley need it?
A craniectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the skull to relieve pressure on the brain. Hayley underwent this surgery to treat the severe bleeding in her skull and prevent further complications.
When did Hayley Erbert return to dancing?
Hayley began her comeback in April 2024, rejoining the “A Symphony of Dance” tour and made her emotional return to Dancing with the Stars in October 2024.
Are Derek and Hayley Hough married?
Yes, Derek and Hayley Hough got married on August 26, 2023, after dating for several years.
Do they have children?
Yes, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Everley Capri Hough, in December 2025.
