Julianne Hough is shedding light on her past relationship with Ryan Seacrest, which spanned from 2010 to 2013. On the August 12 episode of Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Hough revealed the real reasons behind their breakup and the personal growth she experienced during that time.
Reflecting on her relationship with Seacrest, Hough shared, “The experience felt like the rug was pulled out from under me. I was in a whirlwind, encountering things I never imagined.” She explained that a significant factor in their split was her desire to establish her own identity and career outside of their relationship. Hough, who was just starting to make her mark in the entertainment industry, felt that her success was overshadowed by Seacrest’s high-profile career.
“I realized I needed to build my own path independently,” she admitted. “Despite the opportunities and the privileged life, I wanted to feel proud of what I achieved on my own, not just through association.”
Hough also expressed concerns about public perception, fearing that people might think she was using Seacrest for personal gain. “There was a constant worry that I might be seen as benefiting from his fame rather than my own merits. I felt like I was losing myself and trying to fit into a mold that wasn’t authentic to me,” she said.
Looking back on her past relationships, including her marriage to hockey player Brooks Laich from 2017 to 2020, Hough reflected on her feelings about love. She confessed, “I’ve come to realize that I’m not sure I’ve ever truly been in love. What I’ve loved is the feeling of being loved. I’ve always been more focused on fulfilling others’ expectations to receive love in return.”
Hough’s candid revelations offer a deeper understanding of her past relationships and the personal journey she has undergone. As she continues to evolve both personally and professionally, her experiences provide valuable insights into the challenges of navigating high-profile relationships and the quest for self-fulfillment.