Derek Hough Was Spotted With ‘VPR’s Ariana Madix Ahead of ‘DWTS’ Announcement
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The dance floor is heating up, and rumors are swirling about the upcoming season of Dancing With the Stars. The latest buzz centers around none other than the dashing Derek Hough and Vanderpump Rules star Ariana Madix. On a sunny afternoon in West Hollywood, the two were spotted together, fueling speculation that Madix might be joining the cast of the popular dance competition.
Now, it’s been revealed that Madix will be apart of the upcoming Dancing With The Stars season. But let’s rewind and look back at all of the clues we had about Madix’s involvement in the series.
Derek Hough Spotted Having Lunch At Ariana Madix’s Sandwich Shop
The Daily Mail recently captured Hough and Madix strolling arm in arm after enjoying a meal at Madix’s soon-to-open sandwich shop, Something About Her. Located on the trendy N. Robertson Boulevard, this eatery is already attracting attention, even before its grand opening.
Madix looked stunning in a patterned pink mini dress, while Hough rocked a casual ensemble of jeans and a t-shirt. Laughter filled the air as they bid each other farewell with a warm embrace.
If you’re unfamiliar with Madix, let’s get you up to speed. She has been a familiar face on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules since 2013. However, in 2023, Madix found herself in the midst of a scandal involving her former partner, Tom Sandoval, and their co-star Raquel Leviss.
Despite the rocky road, Madix turned the tables on the situation and emerged with numerous endorsement deals and partnerships. In fact, in April 2023, it was reported that Madix was in “late-stage conversations” with ABC to join the cast of DWTS for its thrilling season 32.
The Reality TV Star Recently Hinted At Her Involvement
During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Madix was asked about the rumors surrounding her potential involvement in DWTS. Though she maintained a coy stance, her eyes sparkled with excitement.
“I don’t know anything yet, so…” Madix said. “It would be really cool though. I would love to do it!”
Her recent involvement with the renowned DWTS judge only fueled her being a celebrity contestant even more. The rumors, along with her recent outing with Hough more or less confirmed her involvement for fans.
Derek Hough Recently Said He Didn’t Know Ariana Madix
Now, let’s rewind a bit more. The former pro dancer turned judge on DWTS has been coy himself when it comes to Madix. Just a few weeks ago, Hough professed ignorance about who she was or the scandal she was embroiled in.
When asked about the rumors, Hough played it cool. “I don’t know who you’re talking about,” he slyly responded. When pressed about the infamous cheating scandal on Vanderpump Rules, Hough admitted to not “following it” and claimed he would “have to look it up.”
However, things seem to have taken a turn since then. Hough was asked about the possibility of someone like Madix, who is experiencing a surge in popularity, joining the show. His response hinted at a newfound interest.
“If people are interested in it, that’s what it’s about,” Hough said. “It’s more about what people want to see, so that’s the most important thing. So if you say you know this is the thing right now, then I’m happy to have her.”
