Julianne Hough Explains How She’s Gearing Up for ‘DWTS’ Hosting Debut
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As Dancing With The Stars season 32 fast approaches, Julianne Hough is not getting any lax. The former back-to-back series champion is set to come back to the ballroom to serve as co-host starting September.
Julianne Hough Reveals Her Preparations for DWTS Hosting Role
Apart from much-anticipated dancing pairs for the upcoming season, fans are also looking forward to having Hough as co-host. Hough will be replacing supermodel Tyra Banks on the ABC series, being Alfonso Ribeiro’s newest partner.
Yet, while the pro-turned-judge-turned-host has been well-accustomed to the DWTS dynamics, she knows she still has to get herself together. Talking to Hollywood Life, the professional dancer recently talked about her preparation for the hosting role.
“I’ve been talking to Alfonso a lot, and he has just been such a joy,” she said. “He’s so welcoming and excited and we’re really good partners already in how we just respect one another and want to support each other.”
As a longtime part of the DWTS, Hough knows the significance of having good relations with the cast. According to her, she’s lately been intimating her presence during rehearsals so dancing couples can be comfortable around her.
“Also, I think just immersing myself again back into the family and being there during rehearsals so that the couples feel really safe and they can actually just have a conversation with me.”
For those who may not know, Hough first appeared in DWTS as a competitor in 2007. After winning two seasons back to back, she left the show in 2009 and returned in 2014 as a judge. She then departed from the show in 2017.
She’s Excited to Witness Dance Numbers of Contestants
Distinct from her usual role as a meticulous dancer and a critique in the panel, Hough’s duty for season 32 is to ensure the flow of each episode. Such responsibility energizes her as she will not have to carry too much pressure during dance performances.
“I am just excited to be a witness,” she said. “A lot of the time, I’m so focused on being on stage or needing to perform or feeling the pressure, and so the fact that I can just watch in awe as these beautiful dancers and the choreographer create magic and we get to just watch and enjoy and celebrate, and I’m just excited about that.”
Last March, Hough confirmed on Instagram that she’ll be rejoining Dancing with the Stars as co-host. Reflecting on the opportunity, she stated that she’s thrilled to reconnect with the ABC mainstay’s family again.
“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. The incredible team that brings the ballroom to life every night has been my family for the past 17 years. I am so excited to reunite with Alfonso, Carrie Ann, Bruno, Derek, the unbelievably talented pros, and the amazing cast on the dance floor,” she wrote.
Dancing with the Stars season 32 will premiere September 2023 on ABC and Disney+.
