Julianne Hough is opening up about her journey of self-discovery and reflecting on her sexuality, nearly five years after she first shared that she identified as “not straight.”
The Dancing With the Stars host recently discussed her evolving understanding of her sexuality and what it means to her. In a candid conversation on the Aug. 27 episode of the Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast, Julianne touched on how she views love and attraction beyond conventional labels. “Coming out is one of the most vulnerable and empowering things that you can do,” Julianne shared. “I think for me, it was very much like, it’s not about being straight or gay or bi or queer. It’s more about, I think I’m just learning what love is, and I love people. I don’t know what I’m attracted to, but I choose you.”
The 36-year-old performer elaborated, explaining that her attraction to people isn’t necessarily defined by sexuality. “I was starting to see people and seeing their hearts, their beauty, and their essence coming through,” she continued. “It was such a beautiful revelation to realize that I love people, and I don’t know if it’s a sexual attraction or a ‘this’ attraction, but I’m just seeing people.”
Julianne first spoke publicly about her sexuality during a 2019 interview with Women’s Health, where she recalled an intimate moment with her then-husband, Brooks Laich. She told him, “You know I’m not straight, right?” Brooks’ reaction was one of surprise, asking, “I’m sorry, what?” to which she responded, “I’m not. But I choose to be with you.” This honest exchange marked a significant moment in their relationship, which ultimately ended in 2022 after nearly five years of marriage.
Reflecting on her past, Julianne noted that her relationship with Brooks played an essential role in her personal growth. Now a cohost on DWTS since 2023, she looked back on their time together with appreciation. “The relationship was the greatest thing that could have happened to me at that time,” she said. “What I needed was to reconnect to my 10-year-old self. And what did I need at 10? I needed safety, and almost, like, a father figure to come in and be that grounding force of stability.”
Julianne described how their dynamic allowed her to experience a sense of safety and nurturing, saying, “A lot of our dynamic was this little girl feeling and this stable man being there. He provided such a beautiful foundation for me to be a little girl.” Despite their romantic separation, Julianne sees the positive impact their marriage had on both of them.
She concluded with a heartfelt reflection on their connection: “We are very important, special people in each other’s lives, and we shared a really powerful season together. I know that I also brought a lot of things to his life that he shared with me. So, it has definitely felt like a mutual respect, love, and period of growth for both of us.”
Julianne’s insights reveal a deeper understanding of love that transcends labels and embraces the beauty of human connection.
