Julianne Hough recently opened up about her journey of self-discovery and how her understanding of love and sexuality has evolved over time. The Dancing With the Stars host reflected on the personal growth she’s experienced since publicly acknowledging that she was “not straight” nearly five years ago.
“Coming out is one of the most vulnerable and empowering things you can do,” Julianne shared during the August 27th episode of the Jamie Kern Lima Show podcast. She explained that her journey wasn’t about fitting into labels like straight, gay, or bi. “It’s more about learning what love is,” she said. “I love people, and I don’t know what I’m attracted to, but I choose you.”
Julianne, 36, discussed how her perspective on love shifted as she began to see the beauty in people’s hearts and essence. “I started to see people for who they truly are, and it was a beautiful revelation. I realized I loved people beyond just a sexual attraction,” she explained.
Julianne and Brooks Laich, her former husband, divorced in 2022 after nearly five years of marriage. Reflecting on that relationship, Julianne shared that it was “the greatest thing that could have happened to me at that time.” She emphasized how their dynamic allowed her to reconnect with her younger self, finding safety and stability in their partnership.
Despite their romantic separation, Julianne expressed deep gratitude for their time together. “We shared a powerful season together, and we remain important, special people in each other’s lives,” she said. “Our marriage was a period of growth for both of us, marked by mutual respect and love.”
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