DWTS's Julianne Hough breaks silence on relationship status following fan speculation

Julianne Hough has broken her silence on her relationship status via Instagram.

The former Dancing with the Stars professional dancer – who was recently announced as the future host of the show – took to her account on Thursday evening to share her message.

While wishing a very happy birthday to her good friend Tyler Lain, Julianne made reference to how their great chemistry was leading fans to believe there might be more than just a friendship between them.

"Happy Birthday to the most beautiful soul on the planet!" the 34-year-old penned. "Tyler, your light shines brighter than anyone I’ve ever known. You are unique and chic, definitely not basic… Been dying to finally post this collection of Faux Engagement Photos by @samanthamarq."

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Alongside this post, Julianne included a series of joyful images of her and Tyler enjoying each other's company and glowing as if they were a newly engaged couple.

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However, taking to her Instagram stories soon after posting these images, Julianne clarified for any confused followers: "For everyone assuming… Tyler is my BEST FRIEND! We are not in a relationship :)"

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The singer and actress then added: "But also… he is the greatest, so reach out to him and give him the most birthday Love ever!" Fans certainly answered this call in the comments of her post, with many leaving lovely messages to wish the Animal Kingdom actor a great day.

Julianne hasn't spoken about her love life since her split from her ex-husband Brooks Laich in 2020, but in the past she has been linked to model Charlie White and actor Ben Barnes.

The dancer openly identifies as queer, explaining to the New York Post last year: "I didn't really have a moment of like, 'I'm going to do this.' It just was."

She delved into her childhood and how it impacted her decision, admitting: "It is my truth. Everybody's [coming out] experience is different, and I come from a Mormon background where… it hasn't been looked at as something that's accepted.

"But I know that my parents, my friends, my family love me, and they're proud of me. And so I had a really good experience."

Julianne's brother and fellow Dancing with the Stars TV personality Derek Hough is currently engaged to his fiancé Hayley Erbert.

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DWTS's Julianne Hough breaks silence on relationship status following fan speculation