How Julianne Hough Could Visit 'DWTS' Season 22

Rather disappointingly, it looks to be pretty set in stone that one of the main judges will not be returning this season on Dancing with the Stars. That said, she's had a long history with the show, appearing as everything from pro, to champion, to guest-judge — so will Julianne Hough visit Dancing With The Stars Season 22, even though she's been replaced on the judging panel by Len Goodman?

Though Hough was a welcome addition to the panel for Seasons 19, 20, and 21, this year she'll be off pursuing other avenues, along with her brother, Derek Hough, who will also be off the show this season. Luckily for fans, former head judge and Viennese Waltz enthusiast Goodman has returned to keep her seat warm — so the judging panel isn't too lonely without Hough.

And while we'll miss her, it's clear that Hough is a very busy woman. You might have caught her singing (and dancing) up a storm recently as a part of the cast of Grease: Live! — wherein lies part of the logic behind her departure. You see, the former DWTS pro/judge has some irons in the fire — as she excitedly told PEOPLE Magazine, "I will miss being on the panel ... but have a lot of exciting stuff coming that I look forward to sharing." She further explained, "I'm really excited because I'm focusing on some other things ... I'm at that point in my career where I need to focus on my personal career and make sure I'm doing what I'm doing."

But, have no fear, because she will most certainly be returning to DWTS — though it's not clear yet in what capacity. As DWTS producer Rob Wade told PEOPLE, "Julianne will always be a part of the Dancing with the Stars family and we hope to see her back in the ballroom in the future." Hough herself echoed this statement, and told the magazine, "I promise it's not the last you'll see of me in the ballroom."

There are so many ways in which she could return — be it as a judge, a mentor, a choreographer, or even as a guest performer. Don't lose hope, folks. At any rate, let's hope that Hough (and her brother) visit during this season of DWTS ... that's not too much to ask, is it?