Julianne Hough has dazzled audiences for years with her boundless energy, undeniable talent, and magnetic screen presence. From lighting up the dance floor on Dancing with the Stars to taking center stage in major television events like Grease Live! and the Tony Awards, she’s carved out a unique space in the entertainment world. Whether she’s acting, singing, dancing, or hosting, Hough brings charisma and creativity to every project. In this article, we’re spotlighting Julianne Hough’s top 9 TV shows that showcase her versatility and star power across genres and formats. Let’s dive into the highlights of her impressive small-screen journey.
1. Show Me the Money
IMdb Rtaing: 4.9/10
Julianne Hough first caught the spotlight on a TV show called Show Me the Money . Her time there was short, but it opened doors for her. She was one of the “Million Dollar Dancers.” These were stylish women who stood beside contestants trying to win cash by answering tough questions.
Julianne didn’t speak on the show, but she danced. Her energy and smile lit up the screen. People noticed. That’s how her journey in Hollywood really began.
The host was William Shatner—yes, the guy from Star Trek . The game was fast and wild. Contestants tried to get rich by guessing right answers. But the real fun came from the drama. Each dancer held a scroll. One could bring big money; the other meant going home with nothing.
Julianne made every moment count. Even though her role wasn’t big, she brought life to the stage. You could feel her joy and talent through the TV.
Show Me the Money didn’t last long. It didn’t win awards or top ratings. But it gave Julianne a chance to shine. And that’s all she needed.
Fun Fact: She was just 18 when she joined the show. Young, bright, and full of dreams.
If you’re curious about where Julianne started, this show is worth a peek. It’s like seeing the first step of a long journey. A glimpse into the early days of someone who would become a star.
You won’t find the show easily online. Try YouTube or classic TV sites. Clips are out there if you look hard enough.
Watching her now, it’s easy to forget how small her start really was. But everyone has to begin somewhere. For Julianne, hers was on a game show filled with lights, scrolls, and surprises.
It’s a reminder: big things often come from small beginnings.
2. Dancing with the Stars
IMdb Rtaing: 4.9/10
Julianne Hough lit up the world through Dancing with the Stars . This show made her a favorite in homes across America. She first stepped on stage in 2007 as a pro dancer. Right away, folks noticed how she moved—graceful, strong, and full of life.
She danced her way to victory twice. First with Apolo Anton Ohno, an Olympic speed skater. Then with Hélio Castroneves, a fast-moving race car driver. Her mirrorball wins were no surprise. Everyone could see the fire in her steps.
Later, Julianne came back—not as a dancer, but as a judge. She brought wisdom from years of dancing. Her advice was sharp, kind, and real. She knew what it took to be out there, under bright lights, giving your all.
On the show, stars learn to dance. They pair up with pros like Julianne. Each week brings a new challenge—cha-cha, tango, waltz. The dancers train hard. The judges watch close. The crowd cheers loud.
It’s more than moves. It’s about growth. You see fear, sweat, joy, and pride week after week. Julianne shined not just for her skill, but for her warmth. People loved that about her.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: If you enjoy music, sparkles, and heartfelt moments, this show hits right. There’s drama, sure, but also heart. Julianne’s dances still make me smile. And when she cheered others from the judging seat, she felt like a friend rooting for you.
This show has won Emmys. Big ones. In 2015, Julianne herself won for Outstanding Choreography. Judges and fans alike said she brought something fresh. Not flashy—just real.
Fun Fact: She was just 18 when she first won DWTS . That’s young. And rare. She proved age didn’t matter if you had drive and heart.
Streaming Availability: Want to catch old seasons? Disney+ is a good start. Sometimes Hulu carries it too. For quick laughs or big moments, check YouTube. Clips pop up often.
Watching Julianne reminds you—it doesn’t matter where you start. What counts is how you move forward. With passion, courage, and a little sparkle.
3. Grease Live!
IMdb Rtaing: 7.0/10
Julianne Hough stepped into big shoes with Grease Live! She played Sandy Olsson. That’s the sweet, soft-spoken girl from the classic Grease story. In 2016, the whole thing was brought to life on TV—live! It was loud, it was bright, and it was full of energy. Julianne sang. She danced. She acted her heart out. And people felt it.
The story is about high school in the ‘50s. Sandy is new at Rydell High. She’s trying to belong while also figuring out her feelings for Danny Zuko. He’s cool, but he’s got a soft side too. There are songs you know—like “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights.” Big dance moves. Bright costumes. The kind of show that makes you want to tap your feet or swing your hips.
Julianne made Sandy her own. She kept the sweetness but added strength. Her voice was clear. Her smile lit up the stage. Fans loved seeing her in this role. Critics did too.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: This wasn’t just another musical. It was live. No second chances. Every move mattered. Julianne showed she could do it all—sing, dance, act. All at once. If you like music, dancing, or real talent under pressure, this one’s for you.
The show won five Emmy Awards. One was for Outstanding Special Class Program. Critics said it was full of life and color. Over 12 million people watched it when it first aired. That’s a lot of eyes on one stage.
Fun Fact: Julianne rode a golf cart between sets. Why? Because the show was live across many stages. No time to walk. Every second counted.
Streaming Availability: You can catch Grease Live! on Paramount+ or buy it on Amazon Prime Video. Some bits are on YouTube too. Worth looking for.
Watching Julianne as Sandy feels like magic. Like dreams come true. She gave every moment her all. And that’s what makes this show something special. Something worth seeing.
4. Speechless
IMdb Rtaing: 7.6/10
Julianne Hough popped into one episode of Speechless and left a bright mark. She played Miss Bloom, a choir teacher with a big smile and even bigger energy. Her role was short, but it sang loud. She brought music, joy, and that spark she always carries.
The show is about the DiMeo family. Their son, JJ, has cerebral palsy. He doesn’t speak, but he’s sharp, funny, and full of life. The whole family moves mountains to make sure he’s seen, heard, and treated like anyone else. It’s a comedy, yes—but it hits deep. You’ll laugh hard, then feel something real in the next moment.
Miss Bloom helped the school kids put on a musical. Of course, Julianne sang. Of course, it was good. Fans loved seeing her bring music into this world—one full of heart and soul.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: This show makes you chuckle, then think. It’s not just jokes—it’s real. It shows how every voice matters. Julianne’s part added more color to an already colorful cast. If you care about stories that mix fun and meaning, this one’s for you.
Critics praised the show for being smart and bold. It got nods at awards like Critics’ Choice and Television Critics Association. People noticed how it balanced humor with truth.
Fun Fact: Even though Julianne was only there for one episode, she made sure you remembered her. She sang. She smiled. She brought her love for music into a story that needed it.
Streaming Availability: Hulu has the full run of Speechless . You can also buy episodes on Amazon Prime Video. Worth the watch if you’ve never seen it.
Julianne’s time on Speechless was small, but it rang true. A little part, a big message. Music, laughter, and the kind of storytelling that reminds you—deep down—what really matters.
5. Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings
IMdb Rtaing: 7.6/10
Julianne Hough took the lead in Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings , in the episode called “Jolene.” She plays Jolene—a bold, lively woman chasing her dream of becoming a country singer. But life throws her a twist. She works at a bar owned by her best friend Emily. Then Emily’s husband starts to take a liking to her. Love, friendship, and dreams all get mixed up in ways that are hard to fix.
Each part of Heartstrings is built around a Dolly Parton song. This one brings the famous tune “Jolene” to life. Julianne sings. She acts. She feels every moment. You see more than just a name from a song—this Jolene has heart, pain, and hope.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: This might be Julianne’s finest acting yet. You feel what she feels. You root for her even when things get messy. If you love stories with music, soul, and real emotion, this one speaks loud.
People watched it and talked about how real it felt. Critics agreed. They said it was moving, well-made, and full of life. Julianne gave Jolene strength—and softness too.
Fun Fact: Dolly Parton herself shows up in the episode. She plays a wise figure who gives Jolene some much-needed advice. It’s a gift to see the woman behind the song step into the story like that.
Streaming Availability: You can catch Heartstrings on Netflix. One click and you’re there. No need to wait.
Julianne’s work here shows how far she’s come. Not just as a dancer or singer—but as a storyteller. This version of Jolene sticks with you. It’s got music, yes. But also truth. And sometimes, that’s the best kind of story to hear.
6. America’s Got Talent
IMdb Rtaing: 7.3/10
Julianne Hough stepped into the judge’s seat on America’s Got Talent for Season 14. She brought her light, her joy, and her know-how. Sitting beside Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, and Gabrielle Union, she helped decide who would move forward each week. Her words were kind, but honest. She knew what it took to stand on that stage—because she’d been there.
She talked to singers. She watched dancers. She saw magicians pull off wild tricks. Each act was different. Each one gave their all. Julianne saw that. She felt it. And she made sure to let them know they mattered.
America’s Got Talent is a place where dreams get a shot. People come from everywhere—from down the street or across the world. They show off their gifts. Some juggle. Some sing. Others make you laugh or gasp with amazement. The judges pick the best. The audience votes too. And in the end, one person wins a million bucks—and a chance to shine in Las Vegas.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: This show is full of heartbeats and surprises. You never know what’s coming next. With Julianne there, it felt even more alive. She smiled. She cheered. Sometimes, she even danced. Watching her was like having a friend who really believed in people.
This show has been around a long time. It’s won fans, awards, and big cheers. It’s been nominated for Emmys again and again. People loved how Julianne lit up the panel. Even though she only stayed one season, she left a mark.
Fun Fact: She didn’t just sit and watch. She got up and moved! During the live shows, she surprised everyone with a dance number. She reminded us all—she may be a judge, but she’s still a star.
Streaming Availability: Want to catch Season 14? Peacock and Hulu have you covered. If you just want quick moments, check YouTube. Clips are easy to find.
Julianne made that season feel special. Not just because she knew talent—but because she celebrated it. She clapped hard. She smiled wide. And she reminded us all why we love watching people chase their dreams.
7. Royalties
IMdb Rtaing: 6.4/10
Julianne Hough lit up the screen in Royalties , a funny and musical comedy that’s full of life. She played Jacqueline Carter—a big-hearted, slightly dramatic country music star with flair to spare. She wasn’t just there for show. She jumped into the story, teamed up with two quirky songwriters, and helped make a brand-new hit. And yes—she sang, she acted, and she made people laugh. All while looking like she was having the time of her life.
Royalties is a show about music, madness, and making it work. The main characters, Pierce and Sara, are songwriters who cook up tunes for wild and weird celebrities. Each episode brings a new guest star playing a made-up music icon. Julianne’s turn as Jacqueline? One of the best. Her energy? Perfect. Her voice? On point. Her humor? Spot on.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: If you enjoy music with a side of laughs, this one’s for you. Julianne plays it loose and fun—different from what you might expect. You’ll catch yourself humming the tune she sings. It’s called “Mighty as a Mule.” It’s silly, catchy, and feels real in all the right ways.
The show got good words from folks who watched it. They said it was fresh. Different. Full of talent. Julianne stood out—not just because she’s known already, but because she brought something real. Something fun. Something honest.
Fun Fact: She didn’t just sing the song—she helped write it too! That’s right. “Mighty as a Mule” came from her ideas and voice. It’s not just a joke—it’s a legit tune with heart and humor.
Streaming Availability: You can find Royalties streaming on Paramount+. Just click and go. No need to wait.
Watching Julianne in this role reminds you—she can do it all. Dance, yes. Act, sure. But also make you laugh until your sides ache. Her part in Royalties shows she’s more than sparkles and serious roles. She’s got joy. She’s got jokes. And she knows how to share them.
8. Step Into the Movies with Derek & Julianne Hough
IMdb Rtaing: 7.4/10
This wasn’t just clips on a screen. This was live. Real dancing. Real energy. Real charm. The sets were big. The costumes were bold. And Julianne? She lit up every scene like she was born for it.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: If you love the movies and the way music moves your feet, this one hits right. Watching Julianne and Derek dance together is like seeing fireworks—bright, fast, and full of joy. They make it all look easy. Fun, too. Like they’re not just performing but sharing something personal. Something real.
Fans loved how fresh it felt. Critics said it was lively and smart. More than that—it was a show that reminded people why we love stories told through dance.
Fun Fact: Julianne and Derek didn’t just perform the dances. They built them. Step by step. Spin by spin. Every move came straight from their own ideas and hard work.
Streaming Availability: You can find Step Into the Movies on Disney+. Sometimes it shows up on ABC or Hulu too. Either way, it’s worth tracking down.
This show is more than just fun—it’s a trip back in time with two dancers who know how to make hearts beat faster. Julianne doesn’t just dance. She tells stories. With her feet. With her smile. With everything she gives. And when the music plays, you won’t want to sit still.
9. Tony Awards: Act One (75th–77th)
IMdb Rtaing: 6.2/10
Julianne Hough stepped into the spotlight at the Tony Awards—Act One for the 75th, 76th, and 77th shows. She wasn’t just there to watch. She was a co-host. She welcomed folks to Broadway’s biggest night. She gave fans a peek behind the curtain before the big show began.
She laughed. She talked with stars. She introduced live performances. She even interviewed nominees. All with that bright smile and energy she’s known for. You could feel how much she loved being on stage.
The Tony Awards are all about honoring the best of Broadway. Musicals. Plays. The people who make them shine. Act One is like the opening act—it gets you ready. You get extra songs, fun talks, and stories that bring you closer to the magic of live theater.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: If you’ve ever felt chills from a live song or been amazed by a stage play, this is for you. Julianne made it feel like you were sitting front row. Her joy lit up the screen. You didn’t just watch—you felt like you were part of the night too.
Fans loved it. Critics did too. The Tonys have won Emmys. They’re the top prize in theater. And when Julianne hosted, she added style, warmth, and heart to every moment.
Fun Fact: Her outfits? Wow. Each year she wore something bold and beautiful. Fans online couldn’t stop talking about her looks. Sparkly. Classy. Just right for Broadway.
Streaming Availability: Clips and full segments are on Paramount+ and CBS. You can also find bits on YouTube. Worth a look if you love theater—or just want to see how the lights shine bright on Broadway.
Julianne brought sparkle and soul to the Tony stage. Whether she was chatting with actors or standing under the lights, she made sure the night felt big. Real big. And if you love the arts, watching her feels like being part of something bigger than yourself.
Julianne Hough has lit up our screens with her talent, energy, and heart across so many amazing TV shows. From dancing her way into our hearts on Dancing with the Stars to showing her acting skills in Jolene and making us smile as a host on the Tony Awards, she’s done it all! Whether you love music, dance, comedy, or drama, there’s something on this list for everyone. Which of these shows is your favorite? Did we miss one you love? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you! Let’s celebrate all the ways Julianne Hough has inspired us through the screen!
