Julianne Hough Reveals Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Return to ‘Dancing With the Stars’ — This Time, as Co-Host (EXCLUSIVE)

variety.com:

Emily Longeretta Season 32 of “Dancing With the Stars” is changing things up. Not only will the show move back to ABC after one season of exclusively streaming on Disney+, but former pro and judge Julianne Hough will join Alfonso Ribeiro as the new co-host. “The door has always been open for me to join or come back in any capacity because ‘Dancing with the Stars’ is my family.

It’s where I feel the most myself and the most at home. The door was never, ever closed. We’ve always talked about coming back and in some sort of capacity,” Hough tells Variety exclusively in her first interview since joining the competition series. “When the idea of coming back to host came around, it was truly a full circle moment.

I’ve now been a part of the show in every role — being a professional dancer to judge to now hosting.” She continues, “I just have this unique perspective to be able to relate and nurture and care for the celebrities and the couples competing because I’ve not only experienced what they’ve experienced, but I’ve also been a judge.

I know what people are looking for and how I can support and make them feel the most comfortable.” Now was the perfect time for her to rejoin the show, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. “That time of life gave people so much perspective [to realize] the things that matter to you the most and where you want to put your energy and focus your time.