In a concerning turn of events, Hayley Erbert, the renowned dancer and spouse of “Dancing With the Stars” judge Derek Hough, underwent emergency brain surgery following a performance near Washington D.C. Derek Hough disclosed on Instagram that Erbert experienced disorientation after their performance in Oxon Hill, Maryland, at the MGM National Harbor Hotel & Casino, leading to her hospitalization.
Doctors diagnosed Erbert with a cranial hematoma, a result of a burst blood vessel, necessitating an urgent craniectomy. Hough expressed gratitude towards the first responders and medical staff for their swift action. The 29-year-old has been touring with Hough since October for his Symphony of Dance Tour, where she played a pivotal role, often sharing the stage with her husband.
The couple’s relationship, which blossomed on the set of ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars” and led to their marriage in August 2015, was a highlight of the show. However, Erbert’s absence was notably felt during the final bow of Tuesday’s performance.
The subsequent performance scheduled at the Sandler Center for Performing Arts in Virginia Beach was canceled. Hough, juggling between the tour and his “DWTS” judging responsibilities, had flown from Los Angeles to D.C. the same morning, having just completed the “DWTS” Season 32 finale and a special recording.
The cause of Hayley Erbert’s condition remains undisclosed, and it’s uncertain if she accompanied Hough during his recent commitments. Columbia Neurosurgery in New York explains that cranial hematomas can stem from head injuries, with symptoms sometimes delayed.
In December last year, Erbert was involved in a car accident with Hough in the San Bernardino Mountains. Despite the harrowing experience, which she shared on Instagram, she suffered relatively minor injuries.
The dance community, along with “DWTS” participants and celebrities, has rallied in support of Erbert. Messages of hope and strength have poured in from figures like Season 32 champion Xochitl Gomez, dancer JoJo “Gomez” Okimura, Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy, and reality TV personality Ariana Madix. Celebrities like Heidi Klum, Nina Dobrev, Alyson Hannigan, and Charli D’Amelio also expressed their good wishes, demonstrating the vast support network surrounding the couple in this difficult time.