Why Is Julianne Hough Not Returning To ‘Dancing With The Stars’? Former Judge Explains Season 22 Exit

“Dancing With the Stars” is losing one of its stars. Julianne Hough, who has sat at the judges table for three seasons, confirmed on Wednesday that she is taking a breaking from the popular ABC reality series. But why? Chalk it up to “exciting” new projects!

“I will miss being on the panel for Season 22, but have a lot of exciting stuff coming that I look forward to sharing,” Hough explained to People magazine.

Hough, 27, didn’t reveal what exactly she has lined up for 2016, and her IMDb page doesn’t expose any new projects either. However, the professional dancer and actress is still riding high following the success of Fox’s “Grease: Live” show. Hough was praised for her impressive performance as Sandy, a role originally brought to life by Olivia Newton John. According to Variety, the musical brought in 12.2 million viewers and a 4.3 rating for adults 18-49.

This isn’t the first time that Julianne Hough has decided to take a break from the competition show. She initially starred as a professional dancing partner in season 4 – 8, but quit to focus on her music career. Hough returned for a couple of performances and guest judging stints before joining Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Toniolo and Len Goodman as a permanent fourth judge in 2014.

But while Hough is exiting, “Dancing With the Stars” viewers will be welcoming back a familiar face to the judges panel. Len Goodman is reclaiming his chair after taking a break during Season 21.

Fortunately, fans upset about losing Hough still have hope to see her on the program again in the future.

“I promise it’s not the last you’ll see of me in the ballroom,” Hough added.

Producer Rob Wade shared a similar message with People magazine, revealing that Hough is welcome back.

“Julianne will always be a part of the ‘Dancing With the Stars’ family and we hope to see her back in the ballroom in the future,” he told the outlet.

In the meantime, those that want to stay up to date on everything Hough has going on will want to check out her website. The starlet has been posting lifestyle and fashion tips for her fans.

“Dancing With the Stars” Season 22 premieres on ABC on Monday, March 21 at 8 p.m. EST.