Derek Hough Struggled to Watch Céline Dion Documentary Seizure Scene of Wife Haley
Derek Hough, the renowned Dancing with the Stars judge, recently shared a deeply emotional experience he had while watching Céline Dion’s documentary, “I Am: Céline Dion.” The documentary, which provides an intimate look into Dion’s life and her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS), struck a particularly poignant chord with Hough due to his wife Hayley Erbert’s own health struggles.
Hough, 39, took to Instagram on June 27 to express his feelings about the documentary. He posted a heartfelt message alongside a video of him and Erbert meeting Dion backstage a few years ago. The couple, especially Erbert, who is a diehard fan of Dion, were thrilled yet nervous to meet the iconic singer.
The documentary showcases Dion’s journey with SPS, a rare neurological disorder that causes severe muscle spasms and affects her vocal cords. One scene, in particular, was incredibly difficult for Hough to watch. It depicted Dion experiencing a seizure in real-time, a moment that brought back painful memories of Erbert’s own health crisis.
In December 2023, Erbert was diagnosed with a cranial hematoma caused by a burst blood vessel. She underwent an emergency craniectomy to relieve the pressure on her brain, followed by a cranioplasty surgery to replace a large portion of her skull. The ordeal was harrowing for both Erbert and Hough, making the seizure scene in Dion’s documentary almost unbearable for Hough to re-watch.
Despite the challenges, Erbert made a remarkable recovery and was cleared to return to dancing with her husband on their Symphony of Dance Tour in April. Her resilience and determination were evident as she took to Instagram to share her gratitude and joy at being able to perform again. “I DID IT! This tour reignited many parts of me that have been dim for so long,” she wrote. “I am so grateful to still be here, with you all, doing what I love.”
Dion’s battle with SPS has similarly kept her from performing. She announced her diagnosis in December 2022 and had to cancel her tour as she navigated the challenges of her condition. The documentary provides a raw and honest look at her struggles and her unwavering determination to return to the stage. “I miss it so much. The people. I miss them,” Dion says in the film. “If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. And I won’t stop.”
Hough, who met Dion before her diagnosis, was deeply moved by her strength and resilience. “Celine is an absolute legend, with a unique and one in a billion voice,” he wrote. “We’re so blessed to witness her talent in our lifetime. I pray she heals and returns to the stage she loves so much.”
The documentary also highlights Dion’s quirky and fun side, providing a well-rounded portrayal of the singer. Hough’s Instagram post included a video of him and Erbert dancing with Dion, capturing a joyful moment that contrasted sharply with the more somber scenes of the documentary.
Erbert’s health scare occurred during a performance on the couple’s Spectacular Symphony of Dance Tour. She became disoriented and was rushed to the hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Her return to the stage in April was met with a standing ovation, a testament to her incredible journey and the support of her fans.
Dion’s SPS diagnosis has significantly impacted her life and career. The Mayo Clinic describes SPS as a rare disorder characterized by involuntary stiffness of axial muscles and painful muscle spasms, often triggered by startle or emotional stimuli. Since her diagnosis, Dion has been open with her fans about her condition and has expressed her gratitude for their unwavering support.
Despite the challenges, Dion has made several public appearances, including a surprise onstage moment at the 2024 GRAMMYs and attending hockey games with her sons, René-Charles, 23, and 13-year-old twins, Nelson and Eddy. Her resilience and determination continue to inspire her fans and fellow artists alike.
Hough, who married Erbert in August 2023, just months before her hospitalization, has been a pillar of support for his wife. In a February interview, he praised Erbert for her inspiring spirit and strength. “She’s doing amazing,” he said. “I can’t say enough, I really can’t, how inspiring she is.”
Reflecting on their journey, Hough expressed his awe at Erbert’s grace and strength. “It’s incredible just to see the way she handled everything with such grace and strength,” he gushed. “That’s just her nature. I was really just in awe of that. It was incredible.”
The experiences of both Dion and Erbert highlight the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the importance of perseverance, support, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s passions.
Source: People, ET Online
