The bond between siblings can be an unbreakable force, a source of comfort and strength in the face of adversity. For Dancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough, 39, this bond was profoundly tested when his sister, Julianne Hough, experienced the heartbreaking loss of her two beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Lexi and Harley, in 2019. This tragic event brought the Hough family together, highlighting the importance of love and support during life’s most challenging moments.
Rallying Around Family in Times of Grief
In a recent interview, Derek Hough opened up about how he and his family rallied around Julianne following the sudden death of her dogs. “I think just like in any family situation, you rally, you know? You always come together,” he shared. The devastating loss of Lexi and Harley, who were tragically killed by coyotes, left Julianne heartbroken. Derek, along with other family members, immediately flew to be by her side, offering comfort and support during an unimaginable time.
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Julianne Hough shared her grief in an emotional interview on The Jamie Kern Lima Show, recounting how Derek and their family provided much-needed solace. For Derek, being there for his sister was simply the natural response. “Families are always the ones that are there for you in difficult times, you know? And I think it’s in those moments you realize how wonderful family is,” he explained.
The Profound Importance of Family and Loved Ones
Derek further emphasized the significance of family connections by sharing a poignant anecdote. He recalled a conversation with a doctor who had witnessed countless individuals on their deathbeds. The doctor observed that in their final moments, people rarely yearn for material possessions or accomplishments; instead, they long for the presence of their loved ones. This resonated deeply with Derek, reinforcing the irreplaceable value of family. “Family’s so important,” he affirmed.
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This profound understanding of family extends to the four-legged members of the Hough household. Derek, along with his wife Hayley Erbert, shares their home with dogs Romi and Luna, and cats Palo and Lily. He emphasized that pets are integral parts of their family, and their loss is felt as deeply as the loss of any human loved one. “I think anybody who really has had a pet that they’ve loved fully [understands] that,” he shared. “So that’s why you always want the best for them… you always want the best for them and look out for them and take care of them.”
Finding Solace and Healing After Loss
Julianne has been open about the grieving process, sharing details about Lexi and Harley’s funerals and a particularly moving moment with Derek on the way to cremate their bodies. She recalled a specific instance where a song from the movie Gladiator played in the car, evoking a powerful sense of connection to her departed pets. She described feeling their presence and a profound sense of peace.
Opening Her Heart to Love Again: Julianne Welcomes Sunny
While the pain of losing Lexi and Harley will always be a part of Julianne’s life, she has found solace and healing in welcoming a new puppy, Sunny, into her home. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she shared a montage of moments with Sunny, expressing the joy and sunshine he has brought back into her life. Julianne acknowledged that Lexi and Harley would have adored Sunny and believed they sent him to her when she was ready to open her heart to love again.
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The story of the Hough family’s unwavering support for Julianne during a period of immense grief serves as a testament to the enduring power of love and family. It also highlights the profound connection between humans and their animal companions and the devastating impact of their loss. Julianne’s journey of healing and opening her heart to Sunny offers a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, love can find a way to shine through.
