Dance Moms, the reality TV show that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, became a cultural phenomenon and a launching pad for numerous young dancers. The series offered viewers a glimpse into the intense world of competitive dance, focusing on the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) in Pittsburgh, led by the formidable Abby Lee Miller, and the lives of her young students and their equally passionate mothers. The show’s drama, the dancers’ incredible talent, and the compelling personalities of the Dance Moms characters captivated audiences and propelled many of them to stardom.
The show’s premise revolved around Miller’s demanding coaching style, her infamous “pyramid” ranking system, and the high-stakes world of youth dance competitions. Despite the pressure-cooker environment, Dance Moms highlighted the extraordinary dedication and skill of its young cast. Many of these Dance Moms characters have remained in the spotlight, forging successful careers in dance, acting, music, and beyond.
More than a decade after the first season, the original cast reunited for a special in May 2024, demonstrating the lasting impact of the show and the continued interest in the lives of these Dance Moms characters. A new chapter began with Dance Moms: A New Era in August 2024, introducing a new generation of dancers. This article delves into the journeys of the most memorable Dance Moms characters, exploring their experiences on the show and their accomplishments since leaving the ALDC.
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The original Dance Moms cast members at the 2016 Kids’ Choice Awards, showcasing the young stars who grew up in the spotlight.
Abby Lee Miller
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Abby Lee Miller’s transformation from the strict Dance Moms coach to navigating personal and professional challenges after the show.
Abby Lee Miller is the central figure of Dance Moms. Born into a dance family, Miller inherited her passion and business acumen from her mother, Maryen Lorrain Miller, who owned a dance studio near Pittsburgh. After high school, with her parents’ support, Abby Lee Miller established the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC), which became the setting for the reality show that would make her a household name.
Miller’s coaching methods, often described as tough and controversial, were a defining aspect of Dance Moms. Her “pyramid,” a weekly dancer ranking ritual, became infamous for its stress-inducing nature. She was known for her sharp critiques, not just of the dancers’ technique but also of their mothers, leading to frequent and dramatic confrontations. Memorable clashes included verbal sparring with Christi Lukasiak and Kelly Hyland, and the infamous water-spraying incident involving Cathy Nesbitt-Stein.
Despite the show’s success and the platform it provided her and her students, Miller faced significant personal and legal challenges. In 2015, she was indicted on bankruptcy fraud charges, accused of concealing income related to Dance Moms. After initially pleading not guilty, she eventually pleaded guilty in 2016 and was sentenced to a year and a day in federal prison. She served eight months before being released to a halfway house in 2018. Shortly after her release, Miller faced a serious health crisis, diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She underwent emergency spinal surgery and extensive treatment, eventually announcing she was cancer-free in 2019. The health battles significantly impacted her mobility, and she has used a wheelchair since 2018, though she has shown progress in regaining her ability to walk.
In 2023, Miller sold the original ALDC studio, marking a significant change. Despite not being invited to the Dance Moms reunion special due to requests from some cast members, she maintains relationships with some of her former students, including JoJo Siwa. In interviews, Miller has expressed some regret over her harsh treatment of the young dancers, acknowledging that she may have been too critical, particularly of those she felt lacked natural talent. While she did not participate in the Dance Moms reboot, Dance Moms: A New Era, the new coach, Glo Hampton, revealed that she reached out to Miller, recognizing her legacy in the dance world.
Maddie Ziegler
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Maddie Ziegler’s evolution from Dance Moms prodigy to acclaimed actress and dancer, highlighting her versatility and continued success.
Maddie Ziegler was arguably the breakout star of Dance Moms. Joining the show at just seven years old, she quickly became known for her exceptional talent, particularly in lyrical dance, and for being Abby Lee Miller’s favored dancer. This favoritism, while beneficial for Maddie’s career, often fueled tension and jealousy among the other dancers and mothers on the show. Maddie remained a central Dance Moms character from the show’s inception until 2016.
Maddie’s career trajectory shifted dramatically when she starred in Sia’s music video for “Chandelier” in 2014. The video, with its groundbreaking choreography and Maddie’s captivating performance, went viral, amassing over 2 billion views and catapulting Maddie into mainstream fame. She continued to collaborate with Sia, appearing in more of her music videos, including “Elastic Heart,” “Cheap Thrills,” and “Big Girls Cry,” and performing alongside Sia at numerous high-profile events.
Leaving Dance Moms marked a new phase in Maddie’s career, focusing on acting and other creative pursuits. She has appeared in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Sia’s directorial debut Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Beyond film, Maddie became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, published in 2017. Her ventures into fashion and modeling are also notable, having worked with luxury brands such as Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi.
Maddie has been vocal about the pressures and negative aspects of her time on Dance Moms, describing the environment as “toxic.” She spoke about the challenges of growing up under the public eye and the emotional toll of the show. Despite the difficulties, Maddie acknowledges that Dance Moms was instrumental in her career launch, even as she maintains a distance from Abby Lee Miller, with whom she has not spoken since leaving the show. Maddie continues to evolve as an artist, embracing new roles and projects that reflect her growth and maturity, as seen in her lead role in the dramedy Fitting In.
Kenzie Ziegler
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Kenzie Ziegler’s journey from Maddie’s younger sister on Dance Moms to a multi-talented artist in her own right.
Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, was another beloved Dance Moms character, known for her bubbly personality and versatility as a dancer. As one of the youngest members of the ALDC team, Kenzie charmed audiences from season 1 to season 6. While often in the shadow of her older sister on the show, Kenzie carved her own path after leaving Dance Moms.
The relationship between Maddie and Kenzie has always been a supportive sisterhood, despite the competitive environment of the show. Kenzie has often expressed admiration for Maddie, citing her as an inspiration. Together, they launched a podcast in 2022, Take 20 with Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their lives and relationship.
Kenzie has successfully transitioned into acting and music. She starred in the web series Total Eclipse and the movie Let Us In. Musically, Kenzie has released two albums, featuring popular tracks like “paper” and “100 degrees,” showcasing her pop-infused sound and stage presence. Her reality TV journey continued with appearances on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer, where she placed third, demonstrating her enduring dance talent and appeal.
Like Maddie, Kenzie chose not to participate in the Dance Moms reunion, citing a desire to move forward from that era of her life. However, she remains connected with the Dance Moms community and enjoys a thriving career that spans across entertainment platforms. Her relationship with TikTok star Tacoda Dubbs, which began in 2020, highlights her personal life alongside her professional achievements.
Melissa Gisoni
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Melissa Gisoni, the Dance Mom known for her unwavering support of Maddie and Kenzie, and her life post-Dance Moms.
Melissa Gisoni, mother to Maddie and Kenzie, was a prominent Dance Moms character known for her fierce protectiveness of her daughters and her sometimes controversial interactions with Abby Lee Miller and the other mothers. On the show, Melissa was often seen advocating for Maddie, sometimes accused of seeking favor with Miller to benefit her daughters.
Melissa, along with Maddie and Kenzie, left Dance Moms after season 6. She cited the need for her daughters to pursue other opportunities and to escape the stressful environment of the show. Since leaving, Melissa has maintained a strong social media presence, engaging with fans on Instagram and YouTube, where she shares insights into her life and experiences after Dance Moms. Her YouTube channel includes content about her daily life, family, and reflections on her Dance Moms journey.
Melissa has also ventured into podcasting, joining fellow original Dance Moms mothers – Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes – for the podcast Because Mom Said So. This platform allows them to revisit their Dance Moms experiences and discuss motherhood and life beyond the show. Melissa’s post-Dance Moms life appears to be focused on family, online content creation, and maintaining connections with the Dance Moms community.
JoJo Siwa
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JoJo Siwa’s transformation from Dance Moms personality to global icon, celebrating her diverse talents and entrepreneurial spirit.
JoJo Siwa, known for her high energy and signature hair bows, is one of the most globally recognized Dance Moms characters. Though she joined Dance Moms as a main cast member in season 5 and 6, her impact and fame extend far beyond her time on the show. JoJo’s distinctive style, encouraged by her mother Jessalynn, and her vibrant personality made her a standout figure.
JoJo and Jessalynn left Dance Moms during season 6, prompted by JoJo’s burgeoning career opportunities, including a deal with Nickelodeon. This move proved pivotal in JoJo’s rise to superstardom. In 2016, she released her debut single, “Boomerang,” which became a viral hit and solidified her status as a pop culture icon for young audiences. Her brand, JoJo’s Bows, became immensely popular, sold in major retail stores, and further amplified her recognition.
JoJo’s collaboration with Nickelodeon led to numerous TV appearances, movies like Blurt! and The J Team, and hosting roles. She was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2020, a testament to her widespread impact and positive influence, particularly among young fans.
In 2021, JoJo publicly came out as LGBTQ+, a moment celebrated by her fans and the broader community. She made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity to be paired with a female professional dancer, further breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity. JoJo has also served as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance, showcasing her dance expertise.
JoJo’s career continues to evolve. In early 2024, she announced a new musical direction with her single “Karma,” signaling a transition towards a more mature image. This evolution reflects her growth as an artist and her willingness to experiment and redefine her public persona. Despite her departure from the signature bows and child-friendly image, JoJo remains a powerful force in entertainment, demonstrating the lasting influence of Dance Moms characters.
Jessalynn Siwa
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Jessalynn Siwa, the quintessential Dance Mom and her continued partnership with JoJo in various ventures.
Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was an integral Dance Moms character, known for her assertive personality and unwavering support of JoJo. Having owned a dance studio herself, Jessalynn brought a deep understanding of the dance world to the show. Her interactions with Abby Lee Miller were often charged, and she never hesitated to advocate for JoJo.
Even after leaving Dance Moms, Jessalynn remained closely involved in JoJo’s career. They co-created the reality competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, which launched the girl group XOMG POP!. Jessalynn’s role as a manager and supporter of JoJo’s ventures highlights their strong mother-daughter partnership. She has been a constant presence in JoJo’s journey through Dancing with the Stars, Special Forces, and her evolving music career. Jessalynn’s dynamic with JoJo is a testament to their personal and professional synergy, making them a formidable duo in the entertainment industry.
Chloé Lukasiak
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Chloé Lukasiak’s resilience and growth after Dance Moms, from overcoming challenges to embracing new creative paths.
Chloé Lukasiak was a beloved original Dance Moms character, known for her grace and emotive dance style. She was a key member of the ALDC team for the first four seasons. Her journey on Dance Moms was marked by intense competition with Maddie Ziegler and a strained relationship with Abby Lee Miller, often fueled by Miller’s criticisms and comparisons. Chloé’s departure from the show in season 4 was emotionally charged, influenced by conflicts between her mother, Christi, and Miller. She briefly returned in season 7, showcasing her enduring passion for dance.
Post-Dance Moms, Chloé focused on her personal growth and creative endeavors. She established a successful YouTube channel, amassing over 2 million subscribers, where she shares vlogs, dance content, and personal reflections. Chloé has also pursued acting, appearing in films like Loophole and The Message. In her memoir, Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World, she recounts her Dance Moms experience and her journey towards self-acceptance and healing.
Reflecting on her Dance Moms experience, Chloé has been open about the negative impact of Miller’s harsh treatment and the competitive environment on her self-esteem. However, she has also demonstrated resilience and used her platform to advocate for mental health and positive self-image. Her relationship with Brooklinn Khoury, though ended in 2023, was publicly celebrated and further highlighted Chloé’s personal journey of growth and self-discovery. Chloé’s post-Dance Moms career is characterized by her commitment to authenticity, creativity, and using her experiences to inspire others.
Christi Lukasiak
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Christi Lukasiak’s life after Dance Moms, from entrepreneurship and advocacy to podcasting and supporting youth mental health.
Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was a standout Dance Moms character known for her outspoken nature and fierce loyalty to her daughter. Her confrontations with Abby Lee Miller were legendary, often stemming from Miller’s criticisms of Chloé and the competitive pressures of the show. Christi’s passionate defenses of Chloé resonated with many viewers, making her a memorable and sometimes controversial figure.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Christi has transitioned into entrepreneurship and advocacy. She runs a successful online platform called Adulting101, aimed at providing life skills education to Gen Z women. Her business ventures also include property rentals and podcasting. Christi co-hosts the Dance Moms rewatch podcast Back to the Barre with Kelly Hyland, offering behind-the-scenes insights and reflections on the show.
Beyond her business endeavors, Christi is actively involved with YourMomCares, a non-profit organization focused on youth mental healthcare. Her advocacy in this area reflects a personal commitment to addressing mental health challenges, particularly for young people. Christi’s post-Dance Moms career showcases her versatility, business acumen, and dedication to making a positive impact, solidifying her status as one of the most memorable Dance Moms characters both on and off screen.
Nia Sioux
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Nia Sioux’s multifaceted career after Dance Moms, from acting and music to academics and advocacy, highlighting her diverse talents.
Nia Sioux was a consistent presence on Dance Moms, appearing in the first seven seasons, making her the longest-running dancer on the show. Known for her resilience and grace, Nia navigated the competitive dance world and Abby Lee Miller’s challenging critiques with poise. Her journey on Dance Moms included overcoming stereotypes and advocating for herself and her unique dance style.
After Dance Moms, Nia pursued a diverse range of interests. She made her off-Broadway debut in Trip of Love, appeared in film and television roles, including a recurring role on The Bold and the Beautiful. Nia also ventured into music, releasing songs like “Star in Your Own Life” and “Slay,” showcasing her vocal and performance talents. She hosted her own Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia, further connecting with fans and sharing her passion for dance.
Currently a student at UCLA, studying American literature and culture, Nia balances her artistic pursuits with academic endeavors. She has expressed aspirations to become an author, reflecting her intellectual curiosity and creative writing skills. Nia’s relationship with Gabriel Hawkins, with whom she celebrated their second anniversary in 2024, highlights her personal life alongside her professional and academic achievements.
Nia has spoken about the complex legacy of Dance Moms, acknowledging both the challenges and the opportunities it presented. While she chose not to participate in the Dance Moms reunion, citing a desire to avoid unnecessary drama, Nia remains appreciative of the platform the show provided and the lessons she learned. Her post-Dance Moms career is a testament to her versatility, ambition, and ability to forge her own path, making her a role model among Dance Moms characters.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
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Dr. Holly Hatcher-Frazier’s wisdom and advocacy, both during Dance Moms and in her post-show career as an author and podcaster.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia Sioux’s mother, was a distinctive Dance Moms character known for her calm and intellectual demeanor, earning her the nickname “Dr. Holly” due to her Ph.D. As one of the few Black mothers on the show, Holly often addressed issues of representation and cultural sensitivity, particularly in relation to Nia’s dance routines and characterization. Her interactions with Abby Lee Miller frequently involved advocating for fair treatment and challenging racially insensitive choreography or costuming choices.
Post-Dance Moms, Holly has continued to be an advocate and voice of reason. She co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with Melissa Gisoni, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes, extending the Dance Moms sisterhood into a new platform. In 2014, she published Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly, sharing her insights and wisdom beyond the reality TV context. Holly’s career reflects her commitment to education, empowerment, and thoughtful dialogue, making her a respected figure among Dance Moms characters and beyond.
Brooke Hyland
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Brooke Hyland’s transition from Dance Moms dancer to social media influencer and her personal milestones after the show.
Brooke Hyland, the eldest dancer on the original Dance Moms team, was known for her acrobatic dance skills and her desire for a more “normal” teenage life. Along with her sister Paige and mother Kelly, Brooke was part of Dance Moms from season 1 until the middle of season 4. Her storyline often revolved around the pressures of dance and her longing for typical teenage experiences outside of the studio.
After leaving Dance Moms, Brooke explored different paths. She released a self-titled album in 2013, showcasing her musical talents. Brooke graduated from Ohio University with a degree in marketing, management information systems, and business analytics, indicating a shift towards business and digital media. She has since become a social media influencer, leveraging her Dance Moms fame to build a substantial online presence.
In May 2024, Brooke got engaged to Brian Thalman, marking a significant personal milestone. Their relationship and engagement have been shared with fans on social media, keeping Brooke connected to her audience. Brooke’s post-Dance Moms journey reflects a move away from the intense dance world towards a blend of personal life, digital influence, and business acumen, showcasing her versatility beyond her early Dance Moms character identity.
Paige Hyland
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Paige Hyland’s journey from Dance Moms dancer to college graduate and her life beyond the reality TV spotlight.
Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, was another original Dance Moms character, known for her sweet personality and, at times, her perceived lack of confidence in dance, often highlighted by Abby Lee Miller. Paige’s journey on Dance Moms, from season 1 to season 4, was intertwined with family drama and the pressures of competition.
Following her departure from Dance Moms, Paige focused on education and personal growth. She attended West Virginia University, graduating in 2023 with a degree in business administration. Like many Dance Moms alums, Paige maintains a strong social media presence, engaging with fans and sharing aspects of her life. Her long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift, a former college football player, is a prominent part of her personal narrative. Paige’s post-Dance Moms life reflects a transition into adulthood, marked by academic achievement and personal relationships, moving beyond her early identity as a Dance Moms character.
Kelly Hyland
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Kelly Hyland’s reflections on Dance Moms and her life after the show, from past conflicts to current perspectives.
Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, was a central Dance Moms character, known for her fiery personality and history with Abby Lee Miller. Having been one of Miller’s original dance students, Kelly’s relationship with Abby was complex and often volatile. Her conflicts with Miller and her fierce protection of her daughters were major storylines on the show, particularly leading up to their departure in season 4.
After Dance Moms, Kelly and her daughters distanced themselves from the dance studio environment. Kelly’s lawsuit against Miller and the physical altercation between them became a defining moment in Dance Moms history. In retrospect, Brooke and Paige have expressed a sense of wanting to shield their mother from guilt related to these conflicts, emphasizing that Kelly was acting in their best interests.
Kelly co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak, revisiting and commenting on Dance Moms episodes. This venture allows her to offer her perspective on the show’s events and engage with fans in a new way. Kelly’s post-Dance Moms life is marked by reflection on her experiences, continued connection with the Dance Moms community, and a focus on family, solidifying her legacy as a memorable and impactful Dance Moms character.
Kendall Vertes
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Kendall Vertes’s journey from Dance Moms dancer to national champion and her continued passion for performance.
Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained until season 7, becoming a long-term member of the ALDC team. Known for her contemporary dance skills and her singing aspirations, Kendall’s time on Dance Moms was marked by both successes and challenges, including temporary shifts to rival teams and the pressures of constantly proving herself to Abby Lee Miller.
Parallel to her dance career, Kendall launched a music career during Dance Moms, releasing her first single “Wear ‘Em Out” in 2015. After Dance Moms, she pursued higher education at James Madison University, while continuing to dance. In 2024, Kendall achieved a significant milestone by winning a national championship with her university dance team, a victory she celebrated with a nod to her Dance Moms past by captioning her trophy photo “Top of the pyramid.”
Kendall’s relationship with baseball player Andrew Ciufo began in 2022, adding a personal dimension to her public life. Like other Dance Moms alums, Kendall has been candid about the negative aspects of her show experience but also acknowledges the bonds formed with her fellow dancers. Her post-Dance Moms trajectory showcases a blend of continued dance achievement, academic pursuits, and personal growth, highlighting her resilience as a Dance Moms character.
Jill Vertes
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Jill Vertes’s perspective on Dance Moms and her current ventures, from podcasting to reflections on her reality TV experience.
Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, was a memorable Dance Moms character, known for her assertive personality and unwavering dedication to Kendall’s dance career. Often referred to as “Crazy Jill” by fans, she was known for her dramatic reactions and intense advocacy for Kendall, frequently clashing with Abby Lee Miller and the other mothers.
Since Dance Moms, Jill has joined the podcasting world, co-hosting Because Mom Said So with Melissa Gisoni, Kelly Hyland, and Holly Hatcher-Frazier. This platform allows her to reflect on her Dance Moms experiences and share her perspectives on motherhood and reality TV. Jill participated in the Dance Moms reunion, where she revisited the emotional intensity of the show, noting that seeing old clips brought back strong emotions and reminded her of the challenging environment Kendall grew up in. Jill’s post-Dance Moms life is characterized by her continued engagement with the Dance Moms community through her podcast and public appearances, maintaining her status as a prominent Dance Moms character.
Kalani Hilliker
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Kalani Hilliker’s evolution from Dance Moms dancer to entrepreneur and her reflections on her journey.
Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4 and remained until season 7, quickly becoming known for her exceptional technique and versatility. Prior to Dance Moms, Kalani gained recognition on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, which served as a stepping stone to her role on the ALDC team. Her time on Dance Moms showcased her dance prowess and her ability to adapt to various styles and challenges.
Post-Dance Moms, Kalani has continued to be active in dance and entertainment. She has appeared in acting roles and ventured into dance education, becoming a dance teacher and aiming to provide a more positive learning environment for her students. Kalani also launched her own skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her personal experiences with mental health challenges, particularly those stemming from her time in the spotlight on Dance Moms.
In August 2024, Kalani announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Despite acknowledging the “trauma” associated with Dance Moms, Kalani has expressed gratitude for the opportunities and lessons she gained from Abby Lee Miller and the show. Her post-Dance Moms career is defined by her entrepreneurial spirit, her commitment to wellness, and her continued engagement with the dance world, solidifying her place among memorable Dance Moms characters.
Kira Girard
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Kira Girard’s life after Dance Moms and her continued presence in Kalani’s life, maintaining a lower public profile.
Kira Girard, Kalani Hilliker’s mother, was a significant Dance Moms character from season 4 onwards. Known for her direct personality and occasional clashes with the other mothers, Kira was fiercely supportive of Kalani’s dance career. Her interactions on the show often involved navigating team dynamics and advocating for Kalani’s opportunities within the ALDC.
Since leaving Dance Moms with Kalani after season 7, Kira has largely stepped away from the public spotlight. She maintains a presence on social media, sharing updates about her family and Kalani’s achievements, but generally keeps a lower profile compared to some of the other Dance Moms mothers. While not as publicly engaged as some of her counterparts, Kira remains part of the extended Dance Moms narrative, especially through her continued support of Kalani’s endeavors.
Vivi-Anne Stein
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Vivi-Anne Stein’s unexpected journey after Dance Moms, from reluctant dancer to college cheerleader, showcasing her diverse interests.
Vivi-Anne Stein, daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, was a unique Dance Moms character, appearing from season 1 as part of the Candy Apple’s Dance Center storyline. Initially portrayed as uninterested in dance, Vivi-Anne became a fan favorite for her deadpan humor and memorable lines, often expressing her lack of enthusiasm for dance despite her mother’s passion.
Despite her initial reluctance on Dance Moms, Vivi-Anne did continue to dance after the show. However, she also explored other interests, notably becoming a cheerleader in high school and continuing cheerleading at Cleveland State University after graduating in 2023. Vivi-Anne’s post-Dance Moms path is distinctive, reflecting a shift away from competitive dance towards cheerleading and academic pursuits, showcasing her evolving interests beyond her early Dance Moms character portrayal.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein’s enduring presence in the dance world and her continued operation of Candy Apple’s Dance Center.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother, was a key Dance Moms character as the owner of Candy Apple’s Dance Center, the ALDC’s main rival studio. Her appearances on Dance Moms from season 1 onwards were often as Abby Lee Miller’s antagonist, creating dramatic tension and competition between their studios. Cathy’s dynamic personality and competitive spirit made her a central figure in the show’s narrative.
Even after Dance Moms, Cathy has remained deeply involved in the dance world. She continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center, maintaining its presence in the competitive dance scene. Cathy’s dedication to her studio and her ongoing involvement in dance competitions demonstrate her lasting commitment to the dance community, long after her Dance Moms character role concluded.
Gianna “Gia” Martello
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Gianna Martello’s continued career in dance and choreography, extending her Dance Moms legacy into new projects.
Gianna “Gia” Martello was a consistent Dance Moms character throughout all eight seasons, serving as Abby Lee Miller’s choreographer and right-hand woman. Having worked at ALDC for over 15 years, Gia was instrumental in training the Dance Moms dancers and staging their award-winning routines. Her choreography and her interactions with both Miller and the dancers were integral to the show’s dynamic.
Post-Dance Moms, Gia has continued her career in dance and choreography. She teaches dance, judges dance competitions, and remains active in the professional dance community. Her involvement in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video in 2024 highlights her ongoing connections within the Dance Moms network and her continued influence in choreography and dance performance. Gia’s career trajectory demonstrates her lasting impact on the dance world, extending her Dance Moms character legacy into diverse and evolving projects.
Conclusion
The Dance Moms characters—both the dancers and their mothers—left an indelible mark on popular culture. From Abby Lee Miller’s controversial coaching to the young dancers’ remarkable talent and the mothers’ unwavering support (and sometimes dramatic interactions), Dance Moms offered a compelling mix of competition, drama, and personal journeys. Many of these Dance Moms characters have successfully transitioned into diverse careers, leveraging the platform the show provided to achieve continued success in dance, acting, music, business, and beyond. Their stories, both during and after Dance Moms, continue to fascinate audiences, demonstrating the lasting impact of the show and the enduring appeal of its unforgettable personalities.
