Julianne Hough and Apolo Ohno Rekindle Friendship on DWTS Anniversary

LOS ANGELES, CA — After 18 years, professional dancer Julianne Hough and Olympian Apolo Anton Ohno will reunite on the 20th Anniversary Celebration episode of Dancing With the Stars on November 11, 2025. Hough, who joined the show at just 18 years old during Season 4 in 2007, won her first two seasons—once with Ohno and once with Hélio Castroneves.

Although fans have speculated about a romantic relationship between Hough and Ohno, both have consistently denied any romance. Ohno stated after their Mirrorball victory, “We have kept our relationship professional from the very beginning. We’ve become great friends over the course of the show. I don’t think we’d have it any other way.” Hough echoed this sentiment in a recent podcast, saying, “Never in a million years” would she have dated her partner, who she was close to during their time on the show.

In the same conversation, Hough reflected on her past engagement to childhood friend Zack Wilson during her partnership with Ohno. Although they won the Mirrorball together in May 2007, she confirmed that she and Wilson were still together but postponed their wedding, which was set for that August. They ultimately split later that year.

Ohno’s last known relationship was with actress Bianca Stam, whom he reportedly dated from 2018 until their engagement. Stam is now married and has a child. Hough, on the other hand, finalized her divorce from hockey player Brooks Laich in 2022, after separating in 2020. She has since been vocal about her personal growth and sexuality.

The upcoming reunion on Dancing With the Stars will not only showcase Hough and Ohno’s friendship but also remind fans of their successful dance partnership that resonated deeply with viewers. Hough’s transition from a pro dancer to a cohost on the show over the years further cements her place in the franchise’s legacy.

The 20th Anniversary Celebration airs on ABC, featuring Ohno’s return to the ballroom in a dance relay that will also include Season 34 contestant Jordan Chiles. As the reunion approaches, the duo’s professional bond remains a point of interest among fans.