Derek Hough Declares Kristen Bell His Dream ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Partner, Sparking Fan Frenzy

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In a delightful moment that has sent ripples through the entertainment world, Derek Hough, the reigning champion of the Dancing With the Stars ballroom, publicly declared actress Kristen Bell his ultimate dream partner for the show. Bell’s charmingly self-deprecating reaction and Hough’s immediate assurance have ignited fervent speculation and excitement among fans for a potential partnership.

During a recent interview on Extra with Kristen Bell and her Nobody Wants This costar Adam Brody, Derek Hough, currently a judge on Dancing With the Stars, made a surprising confession. He revealed that he would step back onto the dance floor as a professional competitor if it meant partnering with Bell, admitting she has been his “number one” choice for years.

The Ballroom Confession That Caught Everyone Off Guard

The revelation came when Hough recalled being asked about his dream partner for Dancing With the Stars. “And I’m gonna be honest with you, Kristen, you’ve been my number one for a while,” he openly shared with the star, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. Bell’s jaw dropped in genuine surprise, and she humorously questioned, “What!? Derek, do you know that I tip over all the time, like even just walking?”

Adam Brody, quick to chime in, asked Hough if he preferred a fun challenge or someone already talented. Bell, ever the quick thinker, suggested Hough could simply move her around “like a mannequin,” to which Hough enthusiastically agreed. Bell further quipped that she’s “super malleable,” solidifying the playful banter.

From “Tipper” to “Dipper”: A Challenge Derek Hough is Ready For

The exchange culminated in Hough asking, “Are we doing this? Is this happening?” Bell, clearly enjoying the idea, responded, “I mean, maybe we could do it. I feel like I would need a lot of rehearsal.” Hough’s response was immediate and confident: “That’s fine, we’ll put in the work, and will turn you from a tipper to a dipper,” a line he admitted to coming up with on the fly. Bell’s enthusiastic “I’m in!” sealed the deal for this hypothetical dream pairing.

While Bell playfully underestimated her own abilities, her past stage work, including Broadway appearances in musicals like Reefer Madness, suggests she might possess more rhythm than she lets on. Partnering with Derek Hough, known for his ability to transform contestants, would undoubtedly be an exciting journey.

Derek Hough’s Unmatched Legacy on Dancing With the Stars

Derek Hough’s history with Dancing With the Stars is legendary. He first joined the show as a guest instructor in 2007, while his sister, Julianne Hough, was already a professional dancer. He officially became a pro in 2008 for season 5 and remained a fixture until season 23 in 2016, with only a couple of breaks.

Disney/Eric McCandless Derek Hough on 'Dancing With the Stars'
Derek Hough during his tenure as a professional dancer on ‘Dancing With the Stars’.

During his remarkable run as a professional dancer, Hough achieved an unparalleled record, winning the coveted Mirrorball Trophy six times. His impressive list of wins includes:

  • Brooke Burke on season 7 (2008)
  • Nicole Scherzinger on season 10 (2010)
  • Jennifer Grey on season 11 (2010)
  • Kellie Pickler on season 16 (2013)
  • Amber Riley on season 17 (2013)
  • Bindi Irwin on season 21 (2015)
ABC/Adam Taylor Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough on 'Dancing With the Stars' season 21
Derek Hough celebrating a Mirrorball Trophy win with Bindi Irwin on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ season 21.

In 2020, Hough returned to the competition series for its 29th season, transitioning from pro dancer to judge alongside Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, a role he has held ever since.

The Hough Dynasty: Family Ties and New Endeavors

The Hough family has deep roots in the dance world. Derek Hough himself began dancing at a young age, starting around 11 years old, a detail that highlights his lifelong dedication to the art, as noted by People. His sister, Julianne Hough, not only competed as a pro on DWTS but now co-hosts the show alongside Alfonso Ribeiro.

Beyond the ballroom, Derek Hough recently took over for Billy Bush as the host of Extra, marking a new chapter in his versatile career. Julianne Hough even remarked, “I think Extra Derek is going to be my new favorite era,” a sentiment Derek himself described as “a vibe” to Entertainment Weekly.

Fan Frenzy: Community Hopes for a Dream Team

The internet is abuzz with fan discussions and excitement over the prospect of Derek Hough and Kristen Bell uniting on Dancing With the Stars. Comments across social media platforms express overwhelming enthusiasm for the potential pairing. Fans envision a season filled with entertaining rehearsals, playful banter, and perhaps even an unexpected Mirrorball journey for Bell.

The idea of Hough, the most decorated pro in DWTS history, returning to coach a charismatic yet self-proclaimed clumsy star like Bell has captured the imagination of the fan community. It presents a narrative arc that viewers adore: the underdog celebrity thriving under the guidance of a master.

While nothing is confirmed, the viral interview has undoubtedly fueled speculation and hope among the devoted fan base. Whether this dream partnership ever materializes, the conversation alone has offered a delightful glimpse into the charming dynamics between two beloved celebrities and a renewed excitement for the enduring legacy of Dancing With the Stars.

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