The “extra” entertainment news program is receiving a new host in its old age.
Derek Hough, better known as a dance professional and now judges in “Dancing with the Stars”, will replace Billy Bush as the main anchor of the union series, which is entering its 32nd season in September.
In a statement to The Times on Wednesday, Hough expressed his emotion and recognized the opportunities that the dance hall has created for him.
“I am entering a new and exciting focus like the host of 'Extra',” said Hough. “I really want to collaborate with this incredible team, immerse yourself in this next creative chapter and connect with fans and the public in a completely new way.”
In May, Bush announced in his “Hot Mics” podcast that he would not return as a host of “extra” after serving as a teacher of teachers since 2019. The old correspondent and co-presenter of “Access Hollywood”, which was entangled in a hot microphone controversy with Donald Trump in 2016, wants to concentrate on his own show.
“'Extra' is culturally iconic,” Bush said in May. “If I had a dollar for every time someone shouted 'extra' for me at the airport or something, I would buy Warner Bros.”
Hough is a dancer and choreographer winner of the Emmy award. As an actor, he has appeared in the ABC series “Nashville” and the Disney+ “High School Musical: The Musical”. He has been a “DWTS” judge since season 29, appearing with Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli.
“Derek has not only dominated the world of dance: it has become a dear family name that has won the hearts of the United States with its talent, charisma and unlimited creativity,” said the “Extra” executive producer Jeremy Spiegel on a statement to The Times.
“I am excited to work in close collaboration with Derek while bringing its electrifying energy and its new perspective to 'extra',” he added.
The new season of “Extra” will premiere on September 8 in Fox. Hough will also continue his duties as the main judge in “DWTS”.
