“Dancing With the Stars” judge Derek Hough might not have performed at Coachella, but that won’t stop the professional dancer from dreaming.
In a new Instagram video, Derek honored this year’s headliner, Justin Bieber, in a sweet tribute.
Derek Hough Raves Over Justin Bieber’s Coachella Concert
As the 2026 Coachella headliner, pop icon Justin Bieber brought plenty of friends with him. Other performers, including Billie Eilish, SZA, and Big Sean shared the stage with the pop singing sensation.
“Dancing With the Stars” judge Derek Hough didn’t have the opportunity to perform. However, he paid tribute to Justin Bieber in his own special way.
“Wow, can’t believe @lilbieber ‘definitely’ 😉 watched my ANYONE cover on stage at Coachella. Thanks JB,” the DWTS judge captioned an Instagram post. He attached the music video for his “Anyone” by Justine Bieber cover in the background with a video of the Coachella headliner playing over it.
“In all seriousness, I love a big full out production and show but seeing Justin regulated, relaxed and present showed an immense sense of growth. Nothing to prove, only to share. Congrats JB on #bieberchella,” Derek continued in the comments.
Fans immediately knew that the dancer was joking around. However, many wished Justin Bieber actually did show off Derek Hough’s cover during the festival.
“I’m going to choose to believe this is true 🤣♥️” Derek’s wife Hayley joked in the comments.
Others expressed delight at how genuinely happy Justin Bieber looked in the footage Derek used from the festival.
“It’s nice to see Justin Bieber smile.🙌” one Instagram user simply noted, with plenty of others leaving similar comments.
The DWTS Judge Greatly Admires Justin Bieber’s Music
“Anyone” by Justin Bieber is a captivating love song and a tribute to his wife, Hailey Baldwin Bieber. Derek Hough’s own fans can clearly see why he wanted to cover the song himself.
Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert met through their mutual love for professional dance. They married on August 26, 2023 and went on to welcome a daughter on December 29, 2025.
Although the Houghs made the “Anyone” cover in 2019, fans can see why it still holds such important meaning to them. In December 2023, Hayley nearly lost her life to a cranial hematoma. Through prompt medical attention and Derek’s love and support, she went on to make a full recovery.
“Anyone” may have been meant for Justin Bieber’s wife, but many couples strongly relate to the deeper sentiments.
“Dancing With the Stars” Season 35 heads back to ABC this September.
