Homecoming celebrations are in order for Julianne Hough. The 34-year-old entertainer is returning to her dancing roots as the newest co-host of ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars.” The “Grease Live!” star, 34, will be replacing Tyra Banks for season 32. Alfonso Ribeiro is back as fellow co-host, while choreographers Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Julianne’s brother, Derek Hough, will also returning as judges for the reality competition series. “It is such an honor to be rejoining ‘Dancing with the Stars’ as co-host,” Hough said in a statement to Variety . “The show holds such a special place in my heart from the many years and different roles I have had the privilege of being a part of,” she added. The
Utah native’s first turn on “DWTS” was in 2007 when she starred not as one of the pro dancers who are paired with celebrity contestants. She later emerged as the victor of seasons four and five while partnered with icons like Apolo Anton Ohno and Hélio Castroneves. Hough was also a guest judge in 2014 and in 2021. “The incredible team that brings the ballroom to life every night has been my family for the past 17 years,” the “Burlesque” alum went on. “I am so excited to reunite with Alfonso, Carrie Ann, Bruno, Derek, the unbelievably talented pros, and the amazing cast on the dance floor. The energy is magnetic every time you step foot in to the ballroom and I can’t wait to feel it again — and of course to share it all with the absolute best and most loyal fans — for another exciting season,” she gushed. Meanwhile, Banks, 49, announced her decision to depart the show on March 16 after joining ‘DWTS’ in 2020. The “America’s Next Top Model” creator told TMZ that she’s leaving the series after three seasons so she can spend more time working on her flourishing ice cream business. The icy sweet brand, SMiZE & DREAM , was launched in 2021 and with shops located throughout the United Arab Emirates. “I’m really focused on business, like crazy focused,” she told the outlet. “SMiZE & DREAM is global, so I feel it’s time for me to really focus on my business and my entrepreneurship.” Banks went on to say that “it’s time” she retired from “DWTS,” noting, “I think my heart and soul are in my business and in producing TV, and you can’t do that while hosting a show.” “So you’ll see me creating things, not just hosting,” she added. The “Life-Size”
Actress was slammed by former “DWTS” cohost Brooke Burke last year for reportedly being a “diva.” The “Wild On” emcee had appeared on David Yontef’s “Behind the Velvet Rope” podcast and commented on Bank’s work as cohost — and why the supermodel may have struggled with the transition. Said Burke, “Like, it is just not about you as the host, right? So, yeah, I think Tyra is great in a shining role. I will just say that.”