Dreams really do come true for "American Idol" finalist Kellie Pickler. The country singer always wanted to be on “Dancing With The Stars,” and now she is getting a chance for the 16^th season of the reality dance show, which begins March 18.

Pickler will be paired with “DWTS” veteran pro dancer Derek Hough and she couldn’t be happier — he’s her favorite. She’s the first “Idol” contestant to appear on the dance show.

"It’s going to be a lot of fun,” the 26-year-old singer told OK magazine Tuesday. “It feels great to be associated with such a talented group of artists and athletes who are willing to challenge themselves in this new way in front of a national audience.”

She added, “But, ask me again after rehearsals and let's see how my feet feel — that'll be the real test!" 

After years of wanting to perform on “DWTS,” the country singer explained how she was chosen.

"I have wanted to be on the show for a while now, but we didn't have to lobby,” Pickler said. “I’ve been asked to be a contestant for the past few seasons. This year was just the first time I was able to compete while still touring and recording.”

Then she added, “I'm fortunate that Derek can join me in Nashville and on the road for some of the rehearsals, so I can accomplish it all.”

Back in 2008, she gushed to the magazine about being on “DWTS.”

“I would love to do ‘Dancing With The Stars,’” she expressed nearly five years ago. “Wouldn’t that be fun? Oh yeah! That would be so fun. It’s only a couple months. It’s not like you’re signing on for the rest of your life. It’ll be fun. I used to do gymnastics for a while, and you know Julianne [Hough] is on ‘Dancing With The Stars’ and very successful. She’s a great dancer. I think I told her I thought it would be fun.”

Hough eventually left the show to pursue an acting career. She currently appearing in the film “Safe Haven.”  

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