Derek Hough and wife Hayley Erbert are expecting their first child together, but the “Dancing With the Stars” couple took a moment to honor their “baby that never made it earthside.” See their touching tribute and the fan response, including messages from their “DWTS” family.
Derek Hough & Hayley Erbert Reveal Heartbreak of Previous Miscarriage
On October 15, Erbert took to Instagram to share a devastating loss with fans.
“There are some things in life that change you forever. For us, this is one of those things,” she wrote in the caption. “A chapter of love, loss, heartbreak, and everything in between.”
Erbert continued, “As we are now in October, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, we share this part of our story to honor our baby that never made it earthside. One in four pregnancies end in miscarriage, a silent heartbreak so many families know, and one we unfortunately had to experience.”
She added, “As we share this, know that there’s a rainbow not far behind. ♥️🌈”
The dance couple notes, “This video is a tribute to a part of our story. A chapter of loss, love, celebration, heartbreak, and everything in between. Although we are so excited to be welcoming our rainbow baby so soon, we honor our baby that never made it earthside.”
The video includes their pregnancy announcement and Erbert having an ultrasound. They also show how Erbert surprised her husband with the pregnancy test and shared the news with friends and family. It ends with a heartbreaking look at the couple crying together.
On July 22, 2025, Hough and Erbert took to Instagram to share their exciting pregnancy news with a beautiful announcement video. Erbert wrote, “We can’t believe the biggest thing to happen to us could be so small.”
Fans Share Support for Derek & Hayley
The comments section was flooded with supportive messages from Hough and Erbert’s fans.
Their “DWTS” family shared sweet comments as well, with Britt Stewart writing, “My dear friend, you are the strongest person I know! You simply radiate strength and light. Sharing your story will give so many people hope. I love you dearly ❤️❤️.”
Jenna Johnson wrote, “Love you both. ✨🕊️,” and Emma Slater shared, “Love you darling.”
Hough’s sister, Julianne wrote, “Witnessing your journey and how you have moved through each life changing moment in the last few years has been the greatest testament of resilience and the power of love — I’m forever in awe of your strength and vulnerability in loving completely! I love you so much ❤️.”
“Wow. Big hugs & love to you both. Thank you for sharing these tender moments with us,” one fan wrote. “Truly touching. Much love & a continued safe pregnancy & delivery for a healthy sweet rainbow baby. 🌈”
Another fan noted, “This was a beautiful tribute you guys. I’m so sorry you went through this. 🌈”
Others shared their own personal experiences of loss, with one fan commenting, “From one mama with little angels in heaven, to another, I am virtually wrapping my arms around you in love, although I know nothing can take away that heartache.”
Another fan wrote, “I am so very sorry that you guys had to experience that. I have been there and it is definitely a very heartbreaking and emotional situation to go through. This rainbow baby is definitely a blessing, and I am sure will carry through the strengths for your previous baby boy or girl that you lost.”
