Julianne, Derek Hough Show Set for Starz

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Julianne Hough and her brother Derek have announced a new television series this week called "Blackpool" that is set to appear on Starz.

The scripted series will follow a ballroom dancer and "the dancer's obsession with perfection and the darker side of the glamorous world of ballroom dance," Julianne explained in a statement on her website on Tuesday.

Julianne and Derek will serve as executive producers of the series, which is named after the prestigious annual ballroom competition that takes place in Blackpool, England.

"Derek and I are thrilled to be working with Starz," Hough added on her website. "We feel that their passion and the style, and quality of their programming provide the perfect environment to capture the true essence of this world that Derek and I know so well and means so much to us."

Alternately, Derek added, "I cannot wait to give audiences a fictionalized view of the world that I experienced growing up."

The 27-year-old dancer described the upcoming drama as "twisted, sexy, funny, dark and passionate," and noted that the show will shed new light on ballroom dancing- more than just "spray tans and sequins."

Additional details about the television series are forthcoming.

Both of the famous siblings are extensively trained in dance and have each appeared on ABC's "Dancing With The Stars," where Derek is currently set to appear on season 16's premiere next week. Julianne has appeared on five seasons of the show, while Monday will mark Derek's 11th season with "DWTS."

This season, Derek is partnered with country music singer Kellie Pickler. "DWTS" season 16 kicks off on ABC on Monday at 8 p.m. EST.

Meanwhile, Hough recently starred in the romance movie "Safe Haven" alongside Josh Duhamel. The actress and dancer is also well known for her high profile relationship with "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest.

Around Valentine's Day earlier this month, the actress revealed that her boyfriend enjoys celebrating their love.

"[Ryan likes] surprising me and ending up at a restaurant and having the place cleared out and rose petals and stuff like that," said the star while speaking to People magazine.

"This year I think it will be more understated," added the 24-year-old. "I have no idea [about plans]. He likes to do Valentine's Day."

Hough noted that Seacrest's efforts make her feel "so cute and special."