Derek Hough Clears the Air on Set Behavior

Derek Hough isn’t taking things lightly regarding recent comments about his conduct. Ryan Seacrest had mentioned he had to reprimand the 40-year-old **Dancing with the Stars** judge about his antics while filming **Celebrity Wheel of Fortune**.

In a September episode, Hough went up against fellow judge Bruno Tonioli and professional Jenna Johnson-Chmerkovskiy.

It was reported that Hough jumped onto the show’s podium and then onto a large, 2,400-pound wheel, an action not permitted on the set.

Seacrest recounted that during a commercial break, Hough “jumped into the center of the wheel and let Bruno spin it, like the top of a cake ornament.” He expressed concern, saying, “We told him, ‘Don’t do that. If you break it, you’re in serious trouble.’”

Just two days later, Hough took to social media to respond.

“This is 1000% not true,” he posted on his Instagram Story, alongside a screenshot of Seacrest’s comment. “No matter how great a set is, I don’t mean to look down on something that rotates like a cake ornament (lol).”

During the episode, Hough celebrated his correct answer by appearing to jump atop the podium, which didn’t sit well with Seacrest.

In the end, Hough raised $63,350 for Feeding America through his participation.

Seacrest noted they had to remind Hough to “stay strong,” adding that the “DWTS” competitors are “very fit, so that’s entertaining.”

The host also shared his long-standing connection with Hough, noting his friendship with Julianne Hough, Derek’s sister, whom Seacrest dated from 2010 to 2013.

“It definitely helps knowing someone or being friends; I can tease them better than those I don’t,” he explained.

In September 2024, Seacrest took the lead on **Wheel of Fortune** and its celebrity version after the retirement of Pat Sajak. Vanna White remains as co-host.

White commented on Seacrest’s commitment, mentioning how he dove into his preparation, expressing, “He really studied and practiced.”

Last spring, while filming **American Idol**, they took a special episode to Hawaii. White fondly recalled, “He was a great character; we had a lot of fun.”

Seacrest shared how much he cherishes his responsibilities, revealing, “We all have memories of watching *Wheel* with our families. I saved up to buy a TV just to watch it during dinner!”

Reflecting on the legacy of the show, he said, “When you look at what Pat and Vanna have built over the years, it’s special. That’s why I agreed to do this.”

Seacrest also expressed his excitement about performing live. “It can even be physical!” he noted about interviewing contestants. “They sometimes toss me around, and I think, ‘Oh my god, I’m gonna get hurt,’ since I bruise easily!”