5 Shocking Facts About Derek Hough's Wife, Hayley Erbert: From Near-Fatal Brain Bleed To Miracle Pregnancy

The woman famously known as "Derek's Wife" is currently at the center of one of the most compelling and inspiring celebrity stories of the year. As of this current date, December 11, 2025, Hayley Erbert Hough is not just a celebrated professional dancer and the wife of *Dancing with the Stars* judge Derek Hough; she is a survivor whose journey through a near-fatal brain injury and subsequent miracle pregnancy has captivated the world. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the strength of the human spirit, making her one of the most talked-about figures in entertainment.

Hayley Erbert’s life has been a whirlwind of professional success, a dream wedding, a terrifying health crisis, and now, the joy of impending parenthood. The dramatic events of late 2023 and 2024, which saw her undergo emergency brain surgery and a lengthy recovery, have only served to deepen the public's fascination with the Kansas-born star. This in-depth look explores the full arc of her life, career, health battle, and her exciting new chapter with Derek Hough.

Complete Biography and Professional Career of Hayley Erbert

Hayley Erbert is a highly accomplished American professional dancer, choreographer, and television personality who first rose to prominence on the competitive dance circuit before making a major splash on network television. Her career is marked by a dynamic range and an undeniable stage presence.

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• Full Name: Hayley Erbert Hough
• Date of Birth: October 11, 1994
• Hometown: Topeka, Kansas
• Early Life & Training: Hayley began dancing at the remarkably young age of three, training extensively in various styles, including contemporary, jazz, and ballet. She attended Washburn Rural High School in Topeka.
• Career Breakthrough: She first gained national attention at age 18 as a contestant on Season 10 of *So You Think You Can Dance*.
• *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS) Fame: Erbert joined the cast of *Dancing with the Stars* in Season 21 as a member of the show's professional dance troupe. She quickly became a fan favorite due to her technical skill and expressive performances.
• Major Collaborations: Throughout her career, she has performed with major artists, including Pitbull and Derek's sister, Julianne Hough, further cementing her status as an elite dancer.
• Marriage and Partnership: Hayley married Derek Hough in a stunning, private ceremony in Carmel, California, in August 2023, following a seven-year relationship. The couple also headlined their own national tour, the *Symphony of Dance* tour.
• Estimated Net Worth: Her success as a dancer, actress, and social media personality has led to an estimated net worth of around $2 million.

The Near-Fatal Health Scare: A Timeline of Hayley Erbert's Brain Injury and Recovery

The most dramatic and life-altering event in Hayley Erbert's life occurred just months after her wedding to Derek Hough. The sudden and severe health crisis became a major news story, highlighting the fragility of life and the power of immediate medical intervention.

December 7, 2023: Collapse and Emergency Surgery

While on the *Symphony of Dance* tour, Hayley collapsed backstage following a performance in Washington, D.C. She was immediately rushed to the hospital where doctors diagnosed her with a cranial hematoma—a life-threatening condition caused by a burst blood vessel in her brain. She underwent an emergency craniectomy, a critical procedure where a section of the skull is removed to relieve pressure on the brain.

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The Initial Recovery Period

Derek Hough provided constant, heartfelt updates to the public, calling his wife's survival "nothing short of a miracle." The immediate danger passed, but the recovery process was extensive, requiring her to wear a protective helmet while the missing piece of her skull was stored. The traumatic event, which Derek described as a "near-death experience," strengthened their bond, making them appreciate every moment together.

February 2024: Skull Implant Surgery (Cranioplasty)

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After a few weeks of recovery from the initial surgery, Hayley underwent a second, planned procedure known as a cranioplasty. This surgery involved replacing the removed skull section with a skull implant. This procedure marked a major milestone in her physical recovery, allowing her to resume more normal activities without the risk associated with a missing skull portion.

A Triumphant Return to the Stage

In a deeply emotional moment, Hayley Erbert made her return to the dance stage for the first time since her brain surgery. Her performance was met with a standing ovation from the audience and her husband, showcasing her incredible determination to reclaim her passion. Her journey from the operating table to the spotlight became a powerful symbol of overcoming adversity in the public eye.

From Recovery to Parenthood: The Next Chapter for Derek and Hayley Hough

The couple's next major announcement served as the perfect, joyous culmination of Hayley’s recovery: the news that they were expecting their first child. This exciting development came about a year and a half after the terrifying health crisis, which many fans and the couple themselves view as a true blessing.

The Pregnancy Announcement and Due Date

Derek and Hayley announced their pregnancy on social media, sharing their excitement with their millions of followers. While they have chosen to keep the baby's gender private, the due date is currently a major topic of discussion. As of late 2025, Derek Hough has revealed that Baby Hough is due "Any Day Now," suggesting the birth is imminent, likely in late December 2025 or early January 2026.

The Emotional Impact of the Journey

Hayley has been open about how her health scare profoundly impacted her perspective on life, her relationship, and her desire to start a family. The experience has made the couple stronger, providing them with a deeper appreciation for their future together. Their decision to share their vulnerability—from the terrifying hospital updates to the intimate moments of recovery and the joyous pregnancy news—has resonated with fans globally, turning their private struggle into a public source of inspiration.

The story of Derek Hough's wife, Hayley Erbert, is a modern-day fairy tale mixed with a dramatic medical thriller. She has transitioned from being a talented dancer to a celebrated survivor, and now, to an expectant mother. Her life serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of devastating trials, resilience, love, and hope can lead to the most beautiful new beginnings.