Derek Hough Reveals Why Julianne Hough Didn’t Return For ‘Dancing’s’ Season 11

Derek Hough has revealed why his sister, Julianne Hough, did not return to “Dancing with the Stars” (“DWTS”) for Season 11.

“Julianne was gonna be back this season, but there were conflicts with the movie ‘Footloose’ that she’s doing right now,” Derek told Access Hollywood’s Shaun Robinson on Monday night at “DWTS.”

As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com in May, Julianne had planned to return to the show for Season 11, but on Monday night, Derek explained that the timing of her movie filming schedule got in the way.

“There was a short overlap and it just couldn’t work it out,” he said. “But she’s doing great, so I’m excited for her.”

Derek revealed that before she learned “Footloose” would keep her from “DWTS,” Julianne was mentally prepared to take on her brother again, as both of the Houghs have won two mirrorballs a piece

“You know what she told me? She said — when she was gonna do the show — like when it was all ready to go… She’s like, ‘You better watch out,’” he laughed. “She’s like, ‘I have had four seasons off and I’m ready to dance, I’m ready to go.’”

Derek said not having Julianne on again this season has made the competition a little easier.

“In a way, I’m kind of relieved,” he laughed, later adding, “It was just an unfortunate overlap… I would have loved to have had her back.”