Updated: November 12, 2025
Hey there, friends! If you’re a fan of Dancing with the Stars or just love a good Hollywood love story, you’ve probably wondered about Julianne Hough’s ex-husband. Julianne, the bubbly dancer-turned-host who’s lit up our screens for years, has been super open about her past relationship with Brooks Laich. It’s a tale of romance, growth, and finding peace after heartbreak. In this post, we’ll dive into their whirlwind romance, the tough split, and how they’re both thriving today. Let’s get into it—because who doesn’t love a story where everyone ends up happier?
Table of Contents
The Meet-Cute: How Julianne and Brooks First Sparked
Picture this: a pro dancer meets a rugged NHL star at a charity event. Sparks fly instantly! Julianne Hough and Brooks Laich first crossed paths back in 2011 at a fundraiser. She was dazzling on the dance floor, and he was the charming Washington Capitals forward with that easy smile. They didn’t jump into dating right away—life was busy with her DWTS gigs and his hockey games—but by 2012, they were official.
What made them click? Brooks brought this grounded, outdoorsy vibe to Julianne’s high-energy world. They bonded over adventures like hiking and trying new recipes (Julianne’s even shared her love for gluten-free baking on social media). Fans adored their chemistry, especially after Brooks popped the question in 2015 during a romantic getaway. They tied the knot in an intimate Idaho ceremony in 2017, surrounded by family and close friends. It was all fairy-tale vibes—white dresses, wildflowers, and vows that promised forever. Ah, young love!
The Magic and the Challenges: Inside Their Marriage
Marriage wasn’t all smooth sailing, but Julianne and Brooks made it look pretty magical at first. They shared sweet glimpses on Instagram: cozy date nights, workout sessions, and even launching a podcast together called How She Did It in 2019, where they chatted wellness and self-love. Brooks retired from hockey in 2022, giving them more time to focus on each other.
But here’s where it gets real—life threw curveballs. Julianne opened up in interviews about her personal growth, including coming out as “not straight” in 2019. She described how Brooks made her feel like a “little girl” at times, which was sweet but clashed with her evolving sense of self. As she expanded into new roles (hello, hosting DWTS!), they realized they wanted different paths. It’s a reminder that even the cutest couples face growing pains.
- Highlight Reel of Their Bond:
- Shared passions: Fitness challenges and charity work.
- Fun moments: Viral videos of them dancing in the kitchen.
- Tough truths: Learning to support each other’s independence.
Through it all, their love was genuine, and that’s what made the next chapter so poignant.
The Heartbreaking Split: Saying Goodbye After Three Years
No one saw it coming, but in August 2020, Julianne and Brooks announced their separation. In a joint statement to People, they shared, “We have realized we are not compatible as partners.” Oof—those words hit hard for fans rooting for their happily ever after. They had been married just under three years, but the decision came after deep reflection during the pandemic lockdown.
Julianne filed for divorce in November 2020, and it was finalized in early 2022. She later reflected on podcasts like Armchair Expert that both have “regrets” about things not working out, but no bitterness. Instead, it’s been about healing. Julianne dove into therapy and self-discovery, emerging stronger and more empowered. Brooks, meanwhile, focused on his post-hockey life, including podcasting and outdoor adventures. Their split showed grace under pressure—no messy drama, just two people choosing kindness.
Life After Divorce: Friendship, New Love, and Baby Joy
Fast-forward to 2025, and the exes are proof that good energy wins. Julianne’s been killing it on DWTS, dating here and there, and even sharing how attending a wedding with Brooks and his then-girlfriend helped her embrace life’s “fullness.” She’s all about that “clean slate” vibe now—stable, loved, and open to whatever comes next.
Brooks? He’s moved on beautifully too. Engaged to CrossFit champ Katrín Tanja Davíðsdóttir since December 2024, they announced her pregnancy in May 2025 with the sweetest post: “Baby Laich coming this fall!” Julianne commented, “Congratulations you two on expanding your family—this baby is already so loved ✨.” And get this—in July 2025, they all hung out on a lake day, wakesurfing and snapping selfies. Talk about amicable!
Then, the cherry on top: In October 2025, Brooks and Katrín welcomed their daughter, Emberly. Julianne’s been nothing but supportive, proving exes can be friends (and auntie figures?). It’s inspiring stuff.
- Post-Divorce Wins:
- Julianne: Thriving career, personal empowerment, and joyful single life.
- Brooks: Fatherhood bliss with Katrín and little Emberly.
- Shared glow-up: Mutual respect and zero shade.
Conclusion: Lessons from Julianne Hough’s Ex-Husband Story
Wrapping this up, Julianne Hough’s journey with ex-husband Brooks Laich is a beautiful reminder that love evolves. From fairy-tale romance to graceful goodbye, they’ve shown us it’s okay to outgrow a chapter while cheering the next ones. In a world of tabloid drama, their story shines with maturity and heart—proving you can love someone deeply, let go lovingly, and still root for their happiness.
If Julianne’s resilience inspires you (and it should!), drop a comment below: What’s your biggest takeaway from celebrity splits? Hit that share button if this resonated, and thanks for reading. Life’s too short for grudges—here’s to fullness, friends!