PureDWTS Julianne Hough Joins “America’s Got Talent” Judging Panel

In what seems to be a pattern of DWTS pros/judges making the move from ABC to other networks recently (first Derek to NBC for World of Dance, then Carrie Ann to CBS for The Talk), Julianne was just announced as one of the new judges for the upcoming summer season of America’s Got Talent:

“America’s Got Talent” has set a new host and members of its judging panel going into Season 14, Variety has learned.

Terry Crews will take over as host of the NBC competition show from Tyra Banks. In addition, Gabrielle Union and Julianne Hough will serve as judges on the upcoming season, joining returning judges Simon Cowell and Howie Mandel. Mel B. and Heidi Klum will not return as judges.

Gotta say – this is likely a major step up for Julianne, as AGT has been a summertime ratings stalwart for YEARS. For those clamoring for her return to DWTS, however, I think this unfortunately means she’s done with DWTS for the foreseeable future – NBC is infamous for being stingy with their talent.  Which is disappointing for me, as I adore Terry Crews and would love to see him on DWTS at some point.  However, Mama Spence has been casually watching the AGT: The Champions mid-season series recently (which Terry has been hosting), and says that Terry is “the perfect host” – and this is coming from someone who loved Nick Cannon as the host of AGT. I rather expected Mel B not to return to AGT, given that she’s had some person struggles in recent years, but I’m a tad surprised that Heidi didn’t come back…or perhaps wasn’t asked back. All in all, an interesting development.