
Derek Hough discusses the passing of Len Goodman, reflects on his own judging style, and shares his predictions for the current season of 'Dancing With the Stars'.
- Sep 19, 2024
AceShowbiz - Derek Hough, a "Dancing With the Stars" (DWTS) judge and former contestant, has expressed his admiration for the late Len Goodman, who was the show's head judge from its inception in 2005 until his retirement in 2022. Goodman passed away in April 2023.
"I wish I was as good as Len," Hough said, acknowledging Goodman's iconic phrases and technical expertise. "He's absolutely irreplaceable."
Hough, 39, joined the judging panel during season 29 in 2020 and tries to emulate Goodman's attention to detail in his own feedback. However, he admits the time constraints of the show can make it challenging.
Despite enjoying the judging role, Hough misses some aspects of competing and would like to have more interaction with the contestants during their mentoring sessions.
Based on his observations, Hough identified Joey Graziadei, Stephen Nedoroscik and Chandler Kinney as potential frontrunners in the current season. He praised Graziadei's natural ability, Nedoroscik's athleticism, and Kinney's technical proficiency.
The Emmy-winning "DWTS" features celebrity contestants paired with professional dancers who face eliminations based on judges' scores and viewers' votes. Notable past winners include Kristi Yamaguchi, Nicole Scherzinger and Charli D'Amelio.