Derek Hough ‘could barely’ watch Celine Dion documentary

Derek Hough revealed it was difficult to watch the documentary I Am: Celine Dion.

The Dancing with the Stars alum, 39, who enjoyed a recent trip to Disney World with his wife Hayley Erbert, 29, shared throw back video on social media of the time the pair met with the Grammy winner.

‘Watched Celine Dion’s new documentary, “I Am Celine,” last night,’ the Hairspray Live! star wrote. The film debuted on Prime June 25.

Of the clip, he said, ‘We were lucky enough to meet her a couple of years ago, even sing and dance with her a little. Haha.’

He described the 59-year-old hitmaker, saying ‘She’s a firecracker,’ and adding, ‘we were so nervous meeting the queen. Especially Hayley who is a diehard fan.’

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The documentary shows Dion’s struggle with Stiff Person Syndrome, which has halted her career and made it difficult for her to sing. 

Hough said, ‘The documentary was incredibly powerful, showing Celine’s struggles with SPS but also her quirky and fun side.’

Unfortunately, there was one scene that was extremely difficult for the dancer to watch, a scene in which one of Dion’s ‘seizures play out in real time.’

‘It was so hard to watch seeing her in pain like that. It also reminded me of Hayley’s seizure on the side of the stage a few months ago. I could barely re-watch,’ he explained.

Erbert was diagnosed with a cranial hematoma from a burst blood vessel in December 2023, and doctors performed an emergency craniectomy. 

Weeks later the Step Into… The Movies dancer underwent a cranioplasty to replace a large portion of her skull, which had been removed during the emergency procedure.

‘During that time, I was realizing how important she is not just in my love, my life, but just in everyday things,’ Hough told Good Morning America in February. 

‘I thought she was strong. And I had no idea. I actually had no idea how strong she was really until just a couple months ago,’ he said. 

Erbert’s recovery was so successful, the couple were able to complete their 70 city Symphony of Dance tour, which ended May 19. 

As for Dion, the couple wish her the best as she works toward recovery. 

‘Celine is an absolute legend, with a unique and one in a billion voice.’ Hough 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.’