Julianne Hough Embraces the Ultimate ‘Hot Girl Summer’ Post-Brooks Laich Divorce!

Julianne Hough, Brooks Laich. Shutterstock (2)

Julianne Hough is prepared to fully enjoy her freedom and embrace the single life, now that one year has passed since her divorce from ex-husband Brooks Laich was finalized.

During the American Ballet Theatre's June Gala on Thursday, June 22, Hough, 34, expressed her excitement for making new friends and embarking on travel adventures, jokingly referring to it as a "hot girl summer." However, when approached about the possibility of finding new love in the warmer months, the upcoming host of Dancing With the Stars firmly responded with a "no."

Hough and Laich got married in July 2017 after being together for four years. Speculation about their split started in early 2020 when they spent time apart during the COVID-19 pandemic. In May, they officially announced their separation, with the Safe Haven star filing for divorce six months later.

"In coming to our decision to separate, we have taken the necessary time with love and care," the couple said in a joint statement. "We still have a deep love and respect for each other and will continue to approach things from that place. We kindly ask for your understanding and respect for our privacy going forward."

At the time of their separation, a source disclosed to us that they had frequent arguments prior to ending their relationship. It was mentioned that they had differing opinions on significant matters and were undergoing a process of self-discovery and addressing any amplified issues that arose during their marriage. Although Hough and the former NHL player have seldom discussed their breakup, the Footloose star appeared to hint at her perspective on life after divorce in July 2020 when she posted a mysterious quote on social media.

"When experiencing feelings of being stuck, depressed, anxious, or hopeless, redirect your focus away from yourself and extend a helping hand to someone less fortunate. Acts of selflessness have the power to invigorate and energize the giver," a passage shared on her Instagram Story stated.

In October 2020, Julianne Hough's brother, Derek Hough, spoke exclusively to Us, expressing his efforts to provide support and be an understanding presence for both Julianne and Laich.

All we desire is for the people we love and care about to be happy and to offer them our support in any way we can. Derek, 36, expressed this sentiment, stating, "The key for me is finding joy in assisting and serving others. Even simply holding space for someone can make a difference." He further expressed, "Isn't that what we all want? To see our family, friends, and everyone around us happy? And if we can contribute to that, then we are more than willing to do so."

Julianne and Laich briefly sparked reconciliation rumors after their initial separation, but eventually, Laich moved on with Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir and the couple got engaged in February 2022. Meanwhile, Julianne has been linked to Ben Barnes and Charlie Wilson after ending her marriage.

In terms of her career, Hough has been chosen to replace Tyra Banks as cohost of season 32 of DWTS. Alongside Alfonso Ribeiro, the choreographer will join the ABC series, premiering in September.

"I am thrilled to once again join as co-host of Dancing with the Stars. This show holds a special place in my heart, as I have been privileged to be a part of it in various roles over the years," Hough expressed to Variety. "The team that brings the ballroom to life every night has become my family during the past 17 years."

In addition, she stated, "I am eagerly looking forward to reuniting with Alfonso, Carrie Ann, Bruno, Derek, the incredibly talented professionals, and the fantastic cast on the dance floor. The energy in the ballroom is electrifying, and I cannot wait to experience it once more. Of course, I am also excited to share it all with our amazing and devoted fans for another thrilling season."