Derek Hough: In the Zone Again

I think “Dancing with the Stars” should change its name to “Dancing with Derek.” This dedicated dancer always amazes me with his extraordinary talent -- and he’s really making up now for taking last season off. Lucky Ricki Lake, his current partner in this season’s competition! She is already a frontrunner because of Derek’s creative choreography, impeccable technique and caring instruction. Ricki definitely seems to be blossoming as a result of being with Derek.

Their dramatic “Red Riding Hood and the Wolf” paso doble and intense “Psycho” tango are among the best routines ever performed on this popular TV series.

Welcome back, Derek!

Derek Hough on Big Screen!

My disappointment about Derek Hough leaving "Dancing with the Stars" this season is somewhat lessened after learning that he's working on a movie musical to be released in 2012. As the world's most avid fan of both Derek and film musicals, how can I complain?

Derek will be co-starring with lovely South Korean singer/dancer/actress BoA in Cobu 3D , which tells the story of two star-crossed dancers in New York who become involved in a rivalry between their brothers' undergroud dance clubs. Duane Adler, director of the Step Up and Save the Last Dance flicks is helming this film, so there should be plenty of dancing -- and I can hardly wait to see it!

Still, with the world's greatest dancer missing from "Dancing with the Stars," that show just won't be the same this year.

Hooray for Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough!

We're celebrating at our house today and cheering for this year's champs on Dancing with the Stars. Jennifer Grey and Derek Hough deserved the trophy, but I was surprised when Jennifer said she decided to perform in the final show despite a painful back injury she suffered on Monday night.

I couldn't help wondering why Jennifer would make such a reckless decision. But then she explained, "I couldn't miss an opportunity to dance two more times with Derek."

Great answer!!!

Derek IS amazing, espcially when he jumps in the air, does a TRIPLE turn before landing, and continues dancing with elegance, energy and flair. Could Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire have done that move? I wonder.

Awesome Dancing by Derek and Jennifer

Last night's "Dancing with the Stars" episode is one of my favorite shows ever! All of the contestants were wonderful, but Derek Hough and Jennifer Grey simply glowed in their Cha Cha and Waltz numbers.

Even if they don't win this year's trophy, their performances last night were unforgettable. Such love and joy in dancing combined with impeccable technique made their routines something special indeed!

I can hardly wait for these routines to play on YouTube, where I'll watch them over and over again.

Derek Hough: "Great" or "Greatest" Dancer?

My husband says Derek Hough is the best dancer he’s ever seen. His words hurt me a little, for I always thought he reserved that honor for me.

Still, I’m one of Derek’s most avid fans. In fact, he’s the main reason I watch Dancing with the Stars. I’m convinced he’s the best dancer since the great Gene Kelly. And like Kelly, Derek is an amazing choreographer.

Body tension, technique, artistry and athleticism combine in all of Derek’s dynamic performances. His lucky partners benefit tremendously from working with him. Nicole Scherzinger, Derek’s latest partner, became someone wonderful to see as she shared the spotlight with him this past season. Congratulations to them both for winning the coveted ballroom trophy this year.

That’s dancin’!!!