The Death of Her Beloved Dogs
Julianne Hough’s love for her dogs, Lexi and Harley, was undeniable. When they suddenly passed away in September 2019, fans were left wondering what happened. Julianne only expressed her grief on Instagram, saying, “I’ve never experienced a love like ours… I miss you. I love you forever. Now You Are Free.” It wasn’t until five years later that she revealed the truth – they were killed by coyotes.
A Difficult Time
Their deaths came during a challenging period in Julianne’s life. She had separated from her now-ex-husband Brooks Laich, stopped working with her longtime assistant, and was preparing to bring her brand KINRGY on Oprah Winfrey’s 2020 tour.
Finding Love Again
Although Lexi and Harley will always be in her heart, Julianne has extended her love to a new furry friend, Sunny, whom she got in 2023. “Lexi & Harley would have loved and played with you every day,” she wrote in a 2024 post, “and I know that they sent you to me, only when I was ready to open my heart and love again.”
Her Relationship with Ex-Husband Brooks Laich
Julianne and Brooks announced their split in May 2020 and finalized their divorce less than two years later. Julianne suggested they had been facing challenges for a while, saying, “There was also a long time of questioning is this working, is this not working?”
Self-Discovery and Growth
Julianne’s journey of self-discovery and growth led her to learn more about herself and her relationships. She realized she had been making decisions based on her 10-year-old self’s need for safety and stability.
Her Sexuality
Julianne has been open about her sexuality, saying, “Coming out is one of the most vulnerable and empowering things that you can do.” She doesn’t focus on labels, instead, she says, “I think I’m just learning what love is, and I love people.”
Disagreeing with the Dancing With the Stars Winner
Julianne disagreed with Bobby Bones winning season 27 of Dancing With the Stars, saying, “He was not the best dancer.” However, Bobby took her remark in stride, saying, “I was the worst dancer… I take pride in that.”
Her Romance with Ex Ryan Seacrest
Julianne dated Ryan Seacrest from 2010 to 2013 and was introduced to a new world of luxury and glamour. However, she felt insecure and tried to “play smaller” to avoid being seen as with him for the wrong reasons.
Her Country Music Career and Biggest Regret
Julianne’s country music career started strong, but she never followed through with a second album. She regrets this, saying, “My psychology was, ‘If I’m not No. 1, then I’m losing.'” She pivoted to acting instead, but wishes she had continued pursuing music.
Julianne Hough’s Career Highlights:
– Born on July 20, 1988, and began her career as a professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars
– Won two seasons with her celebrity partners on Dancing with the Stars
– Returned to Dancing with the Stars in 2014 as a judge and earned three Primetime Emmy Award nominations
– Won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2015 alongside her brother, Derek Hough
– Appeared in films such as:
– Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
– Burlesque
– Footloose
– Rock of Ages
– Safe Haven
– Played the lead role of Sandy in the live TV production of Grease
– Served as a judge on America’s Got Talent
– Made her Broadway debut in the play POTUS: Or, Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive
– Returned to Dancing with the Stars in 2023 as a co-host, alongside Alfonso Ribeiro
Julianne’s career has been a successful one, with roles in films like
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Footloose (2011)
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Rock of Ages (2012)
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Safe Haven (2013)
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Paradise (2013)
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Curve (2015)
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Dirty Grandpa (2016)
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La La Land (2016) – cameo appearance
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Bigger (2018)
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Heart of Life (2019)
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The Christmas Waltz (2020) – TV movie