TMZ Reports Julianne Hough Returning To Judge DWTS, Maks Chmerkovskiy Upset Didn’t Get The Job

Who knows if this news is true or not? Though note how TMZ has been a good source for Dancing With The Stars pre-season rumors for several years. Read on for more….

Sources connected with the show tell us … they’ve made an offer to Julianne to become the 4th judge … the other 3 are coming back. We’re told the 2 sides are in negotiations and are expected to make the deal.

Julianne left the show years ago to pursue an acting and singing career, but it’s been rough going … particularly “Rock of Ages” and “Footloose.” We’re told her commitment to DWTS is only a couple of hours a week, so she’ll still pursue acting.

And there’s this … our sources say Maksim Chmerkovskiy wanted the judging gig and wanted it BADLY … and he’s really pissed he didn’t get it and has made it known to producers.

I hope this is true. I love Julianne and I’m an even BIGGER fan after the Move Live on Tour! I’m also glad the three regular judges will be back.

ETA: Heidi here…TMZ has updated the story and removed the bit about Maks. I think someone made a phone call – perhaps Maks will still get his shot at a guest judging moment. But maybe not. Who knows?

ETA2: “Sources” talk to E News on Julianne and if she’s coming on as a 4th judge. Apparently, she hasn’t signed on…yet. A rep for ABC won’t comment. More below and at this link.