Julianne Hough, the acclaimed dancer, singer, and actress, has captivated audiences not only with her talent but also with her high-profile romantic relationships. Her journey through love has often unfolded in the public eye, marked by significant partnerships with fellow celebrities and athletes, each adding a chapter to her evolving personal story. From early career romances to a highly publicized marriage and subsequent divorce, Hough has navigated the complexities of love under the intense scrutiny of Hollywood.
One of Hough's early public relationships was with country singer Chuck Wicks. They began dating in August 2008 after meeting on the set of Dancing with the Stars, where Hough was a professional dancer and Wicks was her celebrity partner. Their romance blossomed during the show's eighth season, and they were often seen together at events and even recorded a duet titled "Stealing Cinderella." The couple's relationship was widely covered by country music and entertainment outlets. However, their relationship ended in November 2009, with both citing the difficulties of maintaining a long-distance romance amidst their busy careers.
Following her split from Wicks, Julianne Hough entered into a highly publicized relationship with television personality and producer Ryan Seacrest. Their romance began in April 2010 and quickly became one of Hollywood's most talked-about pairings, given Seacrest's immense fame. They often attended red carpet events together and were a staple in celebrity news. Hough frequently spoke about their strong connection and the support they offered each other in their demanding careers. > "He's a great guy," Hough once told People magazine, "and we have a lot of fun together." After more than two years, the couple announced their separation in March 2013, reportedly due to their conflicting schedules and the challenges of balancing their demanding professional lives.
After her relationship with Seacrest, Hough found love with professional hockey player Brooks Laich. They were first linked in December 2013 and quickly became a beloved couple in the public eye. Their relationship was characterized by a shared love for fitness, outdoor activities, and their dogs. Laich proposed to Hough in August 2015, and they frequently shared their engagement journey with fans on social media. Their wedding was a lavish affair, taking place on July 8, 2017, near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, surrounded by family and friends. The couple appeared deeply in love, often posting heartfelt messages about each other.
Throughout their marriage, Hough and Laich often spoke openly about their relationship, including their challenges and growth. They were vocal about their journey of self-discovery, with Hough exploring her sexuality and personal identity. Despite their public declarations of love and commitment, reports of marital struggles began to surface in late 2019 and early 2020. In May 2020, the couple announced their separation, stating in a joint statement, > "We have lovingly and carefully taken the time to come to the decision to separate." Hough officially filed for divorce in November 2020, and the divorce was finalized in February 2022. The split was reportedly amicable, with both emphasizing their continued respect and love for each other as friends.
Since her divorce from Brooks Laich, Julianne Hough has largely kept her romantic life more private, focusing on her career and personal well-being. While she has been the subject of dating rumors, particularly after being seen with actor Ben Barnes in 2020, neither party ever confirmed a romantic relationship, maintaining that they were close friends. Hough has emphasized a period of self-discovery and prioritizing her own happiness and growth. As of recent reports, Julianne Hough appears to be embracing her single life, dedicating her energy to her various professional endeavors, including her return to Dancing with the Stars as a host, and her personal journey of self-love and empowerment, without any publicly confirmed romantic partners.