Julianne Hough, a name synonymous with dazzling dance moves, captivating vocals, and a magnetic screen presence, is undeniably a force of nature in the entertainment world. But did you know that the “Dancing with the Stars” sensation comes from a truly remarkable family where talent, beauty, and an incredible work ethic run deep? It’s time to pull back the curtain and get to know the other extraordinary Houghs, especially her absolutely gorgeous older sisters who, despite choosing different paths, shine just as brightly in their own right. Their story is one of shared dreams, individual triumphs, and an unbreakable family bond that will make your heart swell.
Before Julianne was setting the ballroom ablaze or captivating audiences as a triple-threat performer, she was the youngest of five siblings growing up in humble beginnings in Utah. The Hough household was a vibrant hub of activity, steeped in their Mormon upbringing, where all the kids were involved in countless extracurriculars. “My three older sisters, they all danced and sang and acted. And we were in a band,” Julianne fondly recalled during a 2025 appearance on the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast, painting a picture of a family destined for greatness, one way or another.
While Julianne and her brother Derek may have found their spotlight on the biggest stages, the truth is, the entire Hough clan is blessed with striking resemblance, gorgeous smiles, and that signature natural blond hair. You might even struggle to tell them apart in old photos because they all look so similar! Beyond their undeniable good looks, each Hough sibling has forged an impressive life, filled with passion, dedication, and a whole lot of love. Let’s dive into what makes each of these amazing individuals so special, starting with the star herself and moving through the incredible lives of her older sisters and brother.
1. **Julianne Hough: The Multi-Hyphenate Who Started It All**
Julianne Hough is truly the definition of a multi-hyphenate, a dynamic performer who has conquered multiple facets of the entertainment industry. She first stole our hearts as a professional dancer, famously winning her first two seasons of “Dancing with the Stars” and leaving an indelible mark on the show. But her ambition didn’t stop there; Julianne’s major “DWTS” transformation leading up to Season 34 had fans everywhere speechless, as she blossomed into a quadruple threat, seamlessly transitioning into acting, singing, and television hosting.
Her journey from a young dancer in Utah to a household name is nothing short of inspiring. Julianne, the youngest of five, has always maintained a close bond with her family, especially her brother Derek, who shared many of her early experiences. On the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast, she reflected on how she and Derek “were always so close because we had shared experiences,” emphasizing the unique connection forged through their joint pursuit of dance and entertainment from a young age.
Julianne has also been incredibly open about her personal journey and self-discovery. Her willingness to share her authentic self, including her bisexuality, with her husband and the world, speaks volumes about her courage and growth. This candidness, whether discussing her relationships or her career aspirations, makes her incredibly relatable and further endears her to her vast fanbase.
Her vibrant career continues to flourish, from co-hosting “Dancing with the Stars” to advocating for causes close to her heart. Julianne’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her authentic connection with her audience make her an enduring icon. She truly embodies the spirit of the Hough family: talented, passionate, and always striving for more, while remaining grounded in love and support.
2. **Sharee Hough Selman: The Eldest Sister’s Family and Fitness Empire**
Meet Sharee Hough, the eldest of the five Hough siblings, a woman who truly embraces life with a full heart. At 48 years old, Sharee embarked on her journey “in the Mormon way,” as Julianne explained on the podcast, marrying at just 19 and going on to have six beautiful children. Her dedication to her large, loving family is evident in every aspect of her life, a beautiful testament to the values instilled in the Hough home.
But a life of dance was also very much in Sharee’s blood, just like her younger siblings. She was classically trained in ballet, honing her skills at the prestigious Ballet West Conservatory. Her talent led her to dance professionally at the American Folk Ballet Company as a ballerina, showcasing the deep-seated dancing gene that runs through the Hough family. Even later in life, she proudly danced alongside Julianne in the 2011 remake of “Footloose” while pregnant, proving her enduring passion for movement.
After her professional dance career, Sharee pivoted her focus, channeling her passion for movement into health and fitness. She is now a certified fitness instructor and the founder of Hough Werks, a company dedicated to offering in-person and on-demand lessons. Whether it’s yoga, dance, or strength training, Sharee empowers others to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle, primarily from her base in Salt Lake City.
Her love for her family is truly inspiring, a bond that she actively fosters and passes down to her own children. In a heartwarming Instagram post from August 2020, Sharee shared a lovely picture of the Hough kin by the water, captioning it, “We may fight sometimes, disagree on issues sometimes, but I love these humans fiercely.” This fierce love and commitment to family define Sharee, making her a truly admirable figure in the Hough lineage.
3. **Marabeth Poole: Julianne’s Stunning Doppelganger and Nashville Dreamer**
Prepare to do a double-take, because Marabeth Poole, the second oldest of the Hough kids at 44, could easily pass as Julianne Hough’s identical twin! The resemblance between the two sisters is truly uncanny, with their shared features, gorgeous smiles, and signature blond hair often leading to delightful confusion. Julianne herself once took to Instagram to playfully expose a mistake made by Life & Style Magazine, which mistakenly identified Marabeth as Julianne in a photo with Derek, calling it “so funny!”
Marabeth’s journey is one of passion and diverse pursuits. Julianne revealed on her podcast that Marabeth moved to Nashville years ago with big dreams of becoming a country star, a testament to the musical talent that also runs deep in the family. While her path has evolved, she continues to identify as a “singer/songwriter” on her Instagram, hinting at her enduring connection to music.
Today, Marabeth balances her roles as a mom and a realtor, showcasing her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. She also lists “certified holistic health coach” in her Instagram bio, reflecting a commitment to wellness. She previously owned a spa in Tennessee called Natural Oasis Day Spa and Salon with her husband, though it has since closed, demonstrating her varied business ventures and dedication.
Marabeth has even dabbled in the entertainment industry beyond music, having worked as a stuntwoman in two films in the late ’90s. This adventurous spirit, combined with her stunning looks and entrepreneurial drive, makes Marabeth a fascinating member of the Hough family. She proves that while the spotlight may not always be on her, her life is just as rich and fulfilling, driven by passion and family love. She and her husband, Michael Poole, celebrated their 21st anniversary in September 2023 and share a son, Aidan.
4. **Katherine Hough: The Entrepreneur Balancing Business and Motherhood**
Next up is Katherine Hough, the middle daughter at 43 years old, who beautifully exemplifies what it means to balance a thriving career with the joys and demands of motherhood. While Julianne shared that Katherine originally harbored dreams of becoming an actor, Katherine has found immense satisfaction and success in her chosen profession. She proudly runs her own skincare treatment center, “Skin by Katherine,” a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication.
Katherine’s professional satisfaction is evident in her own words. In 2020, she posted on Instagram, “I’m so very grateful for the career path I have chosen and where it has brought me!! I’ve been very fortunate for many years to call this my dream job!” This genuine enthusiasm for her work as an esthetician, a career she has pursued for over two decades, is truly inspiring. She’s also known for playfully experimenting with different hair colors on social media, effortlessly transitioning from the family’s iconic blond to a chic brown, showing her unique style.
Beyond her professional achievements, Katherine is a dedicated mother to three beautiful daughters: Ariana, Adilynn, and Avery. Julianne, admiring her sister’s ability to manage it all, called Katherine “such a good, present mom” on her podcast. This ability to juggle her business and family life with such grace and attentiveness is a true superpower, making her an incredible role model for her children and her younger siblings alike.
Tragically, Katherine has also faced profound personal loss, as her partner, Tony Schnur, passed away from glioblastoma in February 2023. She has bravely used her platform to advocate for glioblastoma research and awareness, turning her pain into purpose. Her siblings, including Julianne, have publicly rallied around her during these incredibly tough times, demonstrating the profound depth of their family’s support and love. Katherine’s resilience and her commitment to both her work and her family define her remarkable character.
5. **Derek Hough: The Brother Who Danced Alongside Julianne**
When we talk about the Hough family’s undeniable talent, we absolutely have to shine a spotlight on Derek Hough, Julianne’s equally accomplished older brother. Derek, at 40, is a formidable force in the entertainment industry, having achieved incredible success as a champion and judge on “Dancing with the Stars,” a host on “Extra,” and a six-time winner of the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. His performances are nothing short of breathtaking, cementing his status as one of the most talented dancers of his generation.
Derek and Julianne share a uniquely close bond, forged through their shared experiences from a young age. They famously lived in London together to study dance after their parents’ divorce, an experience that brought them even closer. As Julianne expressed, “Derek and I were always so close because we had shared experiences.” This foundation of shared dreams and challenges created an unbreakable connection that has defined their relationship.
Affectionately known as a part of “the blonde squad,” Derek has performed alongside Julianne countless times, captivating audiences with their synchronized routines. From joint live tours to special appearances on “Dancing with the Stars” and even enchanting holiday performances like their “Jingle Bells” dance for ABC’s Disney Holiday Singalong, their synergy is simply magical. He even shared some fun facts about his life, including being an extra in the first Harry Potter movie and an incident where he nearly did a backflip onto Rod Stewart’s head in front of the Queen of England.
On the personal front, Derek’s life is also blooming beautifully. He began dating fellow “DWTS” dancer Hayley Erbert in 2015, and they tied the knot eight years later in 2023. The couple recently announced wonderful news in July 2025: they are expecting their first baby! Derek’s journey, filled with professional triumphs and personal joy, perfectly embodies the spirit of talent and happiness that radiates from the entire Hough family.
6. **The Unbreakable Hough Family Bond**
Despite their individual paths, varied careers, and even living apart when they were kids due to their parents’ divorce, the Hough siblings share an unbreakable bond that is truly a marvel to behold. Julianne has openly spoken about the complexities of growing up with her older sisters, acknowledging that initially, she and Derek, due to their shared experiences and time away from home, were closer, while her older sisters “grew up as a unit.”
However, this dynamic evolved into a powerful, supportive relationship. Julianne revealed that while there’s “no jealousy,” there was a “sadness that maybe there wasn’t an opportunity for them [to make it as performers].” Yet, she quickly added, “They’re so happy, so, so, so happy. They have great lives and they love their life.” This candid honesty about navigating different experiences highlights the genuine love and respect they have for one another, embracing both the joys and the challenges of their family story.
This profound connection is constantly on display, especially during tough times. When Katherine faced the tragic loss of her partner Tony, her siblings rallied around her, offering immense love and support. Similarly, when their stepmom, Debra Hough, battled breast cancer, the entire family came together, demonstrating their strength as a unit. Julianne herself honored Debra via the Five for the Fight campaign in 2016, underscoring their commitment to each other’s well-being.
Their shared love extends to fun, lighthearted moments too! The siblings are quick to share their appreciation, and photos on Instagram frequently capture them hiking, working out, doing yoga at the beach, or even going to costume parties. Their collective appearance dancing alongside Julianne in her breakout role in the 2011 remake of “Footloose” stands as a beautiful symbol of their enduring camaraderie and shared heritage, proving that together, they are an unstoppable and loving force.
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7. **The Hough Family’s Mormon Roots and Early Life**
To truly understand the Houghs, we must look back at their foundations: a close-knit Mormon family raised in Orem, Utah. This upbringing instilled strong values and a deep sense of community and family from an early age. Julianne shared on the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast that she and her siblings were immersed in a myriad of extracurricular activities, fostering their diverse talents and interests right from the start.
Dance, in particular, was woven into the very fabric of their family history, tracing back generations. “My grandparents met dancing, my parents met dancing. It’s in the blood,” Julianne proudly stated. Her parents, Marriann and Bruce Hough, themselves met while participating in the ballroom dancing team at Ricks College in Idaho. This rich legacy meant that all the Hough children, not just Julianne and Derek, were exposed to and excelled in dance, singing, and acting from a tender age.
Julianne recalled how her three older sisters “all danced and sang and acted. And we were in a band” during their formative years. This shared creative journey laid the groundwork for their individual paths. However, as they grew, those paths diverged. Julianne noted how her “oldest sister, she started in the Mormon way, so she got married at 19 and had six kids,” illustrating an early commitment to family life within their cultural context.
The family’s early life wasn’t without its challenges, including their parents’ divorce in 1998. This event led to Julianne and Derek living in London to study dance, which, while creating a unique bond between the youngest siblings, also meant they were apart from their older sisters during crucial developmental years. Despite these separations and differing life choices, their Mormon roots provided a strong moral compass and an enduring appreciation for family, shaping them into the incredible individuals they are today.
Get ready, because the Hough family story just keeps getting better! We’ve already met the fabulous siblings, but now it’s time to dive even deeper into the incredible foundations that shaped them and the unwavering love that keeps them soaring, even through life’s wildest rides. From the parents who started it all to the beautifully blended family they’ve created, and the way they navigate life’s twists and turns with an open heart, this is a family saga you won’t want to miss!
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8. **The Foundational Role of Bruce and Marriann Hough, The Parents**
Behind every incredible family is a set of parents who laid the groundwork, and for the Hough clan, that’s Bruce and Marriann Hough. Julianne herself has reflected on the preciousness of time, noting, “Life seems so short. Where did all the time go? It was just yesterday I was having babies. Now my babies are grown, and so are my grandchildren.” This sentiment beautifully encapsulates the journey of her parents, who have always been their children’s biggest cheerleaders, fostering an environment where talent and dreams could flourish.
It’s truly heartwarming to know that the spark of their own love story ignited on the dance floor! Marriann and Bruce met while both participating in the ballroom dancing team at Ricks College in Idaho, now known as Brigham Young University-Idaho. Talk about fate! This shared passion for dance undoubtedly set the stage for the incredible legacy that would be passed down through their children.
Beyond their dance-filled past, Bruce and Marriann have also carved out impressive lives. Bruce Hough is known as a senior advocate at Nutraceutical Corporation and has been a part of the Utah Republican Party, showcasing a dedication to both business and community. Marriann, on the other hand, is an artist, bringing a creative spirit to the family. Their individual strengths and shared history have undoubtedly contributed to the dynamic and diverse talents of their children, proving that a strong foundation truly makes all the difference.
9. **The Impact of Divorce and the Blended Family**
Life, as we all know, can throw some curveballs, and for the Hough family, one significant turn was Marriann and Bruce’s divorce in 1998. This event occurred when Julianne was just nine years old and Derek was twelve, marking a pivotal moment in their young lives. It meant a shift in family dynamics, but as with all things Hough, it ultimately led to a story of resilience and expansion.
Following their parents’ divorce, Julianne and Derek embarked on an extraordinary journey, moving to London to study dance. This period away from home, dedicated to their craft, forged an incredibly unique and close bond between the two youngest siblings. Julianne shared on the “Not Skinny But Not Fat” podcast, “Derek and I were always so close because we had shared experiences,” highlighting how this shared challenge created an unbreakable connection, even as it separated them physically from their older sisters during crucial developmental years.
Yet, the beauty of the Hough family story is its capacity for growth and inclusion. The divorce didn’t shrink their world; it expanded it! Both Marriann and Bruce remarried, which meant the family tree grew even larger, welcoming new step-parents and step-siblings into the fold. This expansion created a beautifully blended family, showcasing their incredible ability to embrace change and extend their fierce love.
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10. **Marriann Hough’s Expanded Family with Aaron Nelson**
When Marriann Hough remarried financial consultant Aaron Nelson in 1998, it wasn’t just two people joining hands; it was two families coming together in a big, beautiful way! Marriann’s five children and Aaron’s four from a previous marriage meant suddenly there were nine children under one roof. Talk about a full house!
This incredible blending of families necessitated some serious real estate adjustments. As Marriann humorously recounted in an article, they needed an enormous house to accommodate their bustling household. “All we wanted was to get a big enough house for nine children,” she said, perfectly capturing the joyful chaos and practical needs of their new, expansive family life. It’s a testament to their dedication to family that they prioritized creating a space where everyone could thrive.
And let’s be clear, the love and connection within this expanded family are undeniable. Photos all over Marriann’s Instagram show the Hough children happily spending time with her and Aaron, their stepdad. This continuous display of togetherness underscores the strong bonds they’ve built, proving that family isn’t always defined by biology, but by the love and support you share.
11. **Bruce Hough’s New Chapter with Debra Hough**
Just as Marriann found new love, Bruce Hough also embarked on a new chapter, marrying Debra Hough in 2000. Their marriage has been a steadfast presence in the family ever since, adding another wonderful layer to the Hough clan’s story of enduring love and commitment. Debra has seamlessly integrated into the family, becoming a beloved stepmom to all the Hough siblings.
However, their journey together has also faced significant trials. Debra bravely battled breast cancer, a challenge that brought the entire family even closer, showcasing their incredible strength and unity. Julianne, always a champion for causes close to her heart, publicly honored Debra via the Five for the Fight campaign in 2016, underscoring the deep affection and support that flows through the family during times of hardship.
Julianne candidly shared with PEOPLE in 2016 about the profound impact of Debra’s battle, stating, “It was extremely shocking and put everybody that was around her in a vulnerable state.” She continued, “Seeing my father go through that, he’s the head of the house, he’s the strong one … to see him get that vulnerable, it’s very, very serious.” This powerful quote reveals the raw emotion and unwavering solidarity that defines the Houghs, proving that they face life’s toughest moments as an unbreakable unit.
12. **The Enduring Dance Legacy Through Generations**
If there’s one thing that truly runs in the Hough family’s veins, it’s dance! Julianne summed it up perfectly when she proudly declared, “My grandparents met dancing, my parents met dancing. It’s in the blood.” This isn’t just a passion; it’s a generational inheritance, a beautiful thread woven through the very fabric of their family history, dating back to their grandparents’ first steps on the dance floor.
This rich legacy meant that from a tender age, all the Hough children, not just Julianne and Derek, were exposed to and excelled in dance, singing, and acting. Julianne fondly recalled how her three older sisters “all danced and sang and acted. And we were in a band” during their formative years. Even a “family dance party video from Thanksgiving 2015” confirms that the “hot moves definitely run in the family,” proving that their collective talent isn’t just for the spotlight, but for joyous family gatherings too.
While Julianne and Derek famously carried this torch into professional careers, becoming household names in the entertainment industry, their older sisters’ early involvement highlights that the dance gene is truly ubiquitous. Sharee trained at Ballet West Conservatory and danced professionally, Marabeth competed in “Dancing with the Nashville Stars,” and Katherine even appeared as a dancer in “Footloose.” This deep-seated connection to movement, rhythm, and performance is a defining characteristic of the entire Hough family, making them a true dynasty of talent.
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13. **Navigating Individually Chosen Paths and Career Differences**
While Julianne and Derek became synonymous with the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, their older sisters, Sharee, Marabeth, and Katherine, gracefully navigated their own unique and fulfilling paths. As Julianne explained, the Hough kids would ultimately go on “different paths,” with her sisters opting for more traditional lives and choosing careers outside of the demanding entertainment spotlight, such as fitness instruction, real estate, and esthetics.
Julianne has been incredibly candid about her sisters’ early aspirations, revealing on her podcast that Marabeth moved to Nashville years ago with dreams of becoming a country star, and Katherine originally harbored desires of becoming an actor. This honest insight acknowledges that the performing bug certainly bit all of them, but their journeys beautifully evolved into diverse and successful ventures, showcasing their versatility and individual strengths.
Addressing the emotional complexities that can arise from such divergent career paths, Julianne shared, “There’s no jealousy, but there is, like, a sadness that maybe there wasn’t an opportunity for them [to make it as performers].” However, she quickly emphasized, “They’re so happy. So, so, so happy. They have great lives and they love their life.” This heartfelt admission speaks volumes about the genuine love and acceptance within the family, celebrating each other’s happiness and choices, even when they differ.
Julianne also opened up about past communication challenges, where she and Derek initially refrained from sharing their career achievements with their sisters, fearing it might cause hurt feelings. This led to moments where her older siblings didn’t feel “included.” However, the family has actively worked to overcome this, with Julianne stating, “Over the last few years, it’s been very much like, alright, if it hurts, it hurts, but at least we’re close and we’re moving through it vs. avoiding.” This dedication to open communication and mutual understanding is a testament to their unwavering family bond.
14. **Mutual Support Through Personal Tragedies and Challenges**
The Hough siblings share an “unbreakable bond” that truly shines brightest during life’s toughest moments, a testament to their profound love and unwavering support for one another. This deep connection was powerfully demonstrated when their stepmom, Debra Hough, bravely battled breast cancer. The entire family rallied together, offering immense love and support, with Julianne even honoring Debra via a public campaign, underscoring their commitment to each other’s well-being.
More recently, Katherine Hough faced unimaginable heartache with the tragic passing of her partner, Tony Schnur, from glioblastoma in February 2023. In the face of such profound loss, Katherine has bravely used her platform to advocate for glioblastoma research and awareness, turning her pain into purpose. Her siblings, including Julianne, publicly rallied around her, with Julianne commenting “Wrapping you in love” on Katherine’s poignant Instagram post, showcasing the fierce solidarity that defines their family.
This robust support system extends beyond individual tragedies, encompassing all the various ups and downs of life. Whether it was Julianne and Derek navigating their professional successes or the sisters embracing their “more traditional lives” and motherhood, the Houghs consistently uplift one another. “They’re so happy, so, so, so happy. They have great lives and they love their life,” Julianne shared, reflecting the collective joy and contentment within the family, nurtured by constant mutual encouragement.
But it’s not all serious! Their shared love also blossoms in fun, lighthearted moments, which they frequently share with their fans. Instagram is often abuzz with photos of the Hough kin hiking, working out, doing yoga at the beach, or even going to costume parties, showcasing their vibrant, active lifestyle. Their collective appearance dancing alongside Julianne in her breakout role in the 2011 remake of “Footloose” stands as a beautiful, enduring symbol of their camaraderie and shared heritage, proving that together, this family is an unstoppable, loving force. No matter what life throws their way, the Houghs face it with open hearts, unwavering support, and that signature dazzling smile. What an inspiring group of humans!
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And there you have it, folks! The incredible story of Julianne Hough and her absolutely gorgeous, talented, and fiercely bonded siblings. From their dance-infused roots in Utah to their individual triumphs and collective strength, the Houghs are a true testament to the power of family, love, and chasing your dreams, no matter what path you choose. They truly are the ‘blonde squad’ goals we all aspire to!
