Julianne Hough and Ryan Seacrest reunite tonight on New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, his praise for her calls her a phenomenal host

Julianne Hough and Ryan Seacrest reunite tonight on Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve for the first time in over a decade. Seacrest recently praised Hough as a “phenomenal host,” ahead of their co-hosting debut on the biggest New Year’s Eve broadcast in America. The exes, who dated for three years from 2010 to 2013, will helm different locations as the countdown begins at 8 p.m. EST on ABC.

Ex-Lovers Reunite for Network Television’s Biggest Night

Julianne Hough and Ryan Seacrest are set to co-host the most-watched New Year’s Eve special in America. Though they’ll be in different locations, the chemistry will be evident as Seacrest anchors the Times Square countdown from New York’s iconic location. Meanwhile, Hough brings her signature energy to the Las Vegas segment, joined by NFL star Rob Gronkowski.

Seacrest, 50, has hosted the show for more than two decades, making him the linchpin of the broadcast. Hough, 37, brings fresh perspective to the role as a three-time Grammy Award winner and Dancing with the Stars co-host. The pair have matured significantly since their split in 2013.

Why Ryan Seacrest’s Praise Matters for Tonight’s Broadcast

During an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Seacrest made it clear he respects Hough’s hosting abilities completely. “Julianne is a phenomenal host,” he stated confidently. “She, like you, can do everything.” This professional acknowledgment speaks volumes about how both former flames view their work tonight.

Seacrest also praised co-host Rita Ora for her contributions to the broadcast, noting her multi-talented capabilities. He expressed genuine excitement about working with both women across different segments of the show. The hosts will manage performances from major artists including Diana Ross, Mariah Carey, Charlie Puth, and Post Malone.

Co-Host	Location	Details
Ryan Seacrest	Times Square, NYC	21st year hosting the main countdown
Julianne Hough	Las Vegas	Co-hosting debut alongside Rob Gronkowski
Rita Ora	Times Square, NYC	3rd consecutive year as co-host
Chance the Rapper	Chicago	Leading the Central Time countdown

How Hough and Seacrest Have Evolved Since Their 2013 Breakup

The pair’s relationship ended when both were navigating demanding entertainment careers. Hough later revealed on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast that she wanted independence from Seacrest’s established success. “I didn’t want anybody to think I was with him for this reason,” she explained honestly. She has since married and divorced NHL player Brooks Laich.

Seacrest has continued building his empire as the longtime American Idol host and broadcast personality. Hough has flourished as a Dancing with the Stars judge and multi-platinum artist. Their professional trajectories have only strengthened individually, making tonight’s reunion feel more comfortable and collaborative rather than awkward.

“Julianne is a phenomenal host. She, like you, can do everything, so we’re excited to have them.”

— Ryan Seacrest, Host, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve

What to Expect When Julianne Hough Takes the Las Vegas Stage Tonight?

Hough joins Rob Gronkowski from Las Vegas for what is sure to be an entertaining dynamic. Seacrest joked that “Gronk is hysterical, you don’t know what he’s going to do,” suggesting the NFL legend may provide unpredictable entertainment. Hough’s experience as a dancer, singer, and broadcast professional will balance Gronkowski’s improvisational energy perfectly.

The Las Vegas segment will feature performances and celebrations across the western portion of the country. Hough brings her charisma and dance background to the role, making her presence compelling for viewers. Her chemistry with Gronkowski will likely create memorable moments throughout the broadcast. The two have already been spotted rehearsing together at the venue.

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IMAGE_BRIEF: Julianne Hough – Woman in mid-30s with long blonde hair in loose waves, petite athletic build, wearing sparkly champagne-colored dress, standing on stage in Las Vegas venue with Rob Gronkowski beside her in dark suit, both smiling and gesturing toward crowd, colorful stage lighting behind them, New Year’s Eve countdown decorations visible, excited energy in their expressions

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