Julianne Hough 'DWTS' Judge: Former Dancer Returns To Show For Season 19

Julianne Hough is coming back to Dancing With The Stars.

After starring on the long-running ABC series as a professional dancer for seasons four through eight, Hough moved on, opting to focus on her singing and acting careers. Now, she's reportedly returning -- but not as a dancer.

Hough is "returning to 'Dancing with the Stars,'" TMZ reported on Aug. 19. "Sources connected with the show tell us ... they've made an offer to Julianne to become the 4th judge."

According to TMZ, the three other judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli, are all coming back, which means season 19's judge total will go from three to four (something that has yet to be done on the show, aside from the temporarily addition of guest judges).

Although Hough's role as a judge has yet to be set in stone, the two sides are reportedly deep in negotiations and expecting to come to a deal.

Hough's commitment with Dancing With The Stars is only "a couple of hours a week, so she'll still pursue acting," TMZ noted.

Prior to her appearance as a guest judge during Dancing With The Stars season 18, Hough took to Instagram, where she shared a special message with fans.

"Excited to be back judging on @dancingabc #dwts in a couple of weeks!" she wrote. "Did I hear right? That may be the episode where everyone switches partners?! Oooh exciting stuff! See you in the ballroom April 7th! Can't wait!!"

Dancing With The Stars season 19 premieres on Sept. 15 at 8 p.m. on ABC.