Dance Moms captivated audiences for eight seasons on Lifetime, from 2011 to 2019, turning the spotlight on a group of young, talented dancers and their equally ambitious mothers. Set at the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) in Pittsburgh, the reality show, led by the formidable Abby Lee Miller, became a cultural phenomenon. It not only launched the careers of dancers like Maddie Ziegler, JoJo Siwa, and Chloé Lukasiak but also sparked countless conversations about competitive dance, parenting, and reality television itself.
The series was known for its intense training environment, high-stakes competitions, and interpersonal drama, particularly Abby Lee Miller’s demanding coaching style and the mothers’ passionate involvement in their daughters’ dance careers. Miller’s infamous “pyramid” ranking system and sharp critiques became hallmarks of the show, creating both tension and unforgettable television moments.
Despite the pressures of the show, many of the Dance Moms cast members have successfully transitioned into various fields, from acting and music to social media influencing and entrepreneurship. A recent reunion special in May 2024 brought many of the original cast back together, reminding audiences of the show’s lasting impact. However, noticeably absent were Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, and Abby Lee Miller herself, highlighting the complex relationships that evolved both on and off-screen.
As a new chapter begins with Dance Moms: A New Era on Hulu, featuring a fresh group of dancers under coach Gloria “Glo” Hampton, it’s the perfect time to revisit the original Dance Moms full cast and see where life has taken them. From dance superstars to businesswomen and beyond, here’s a comprehensive look at what the stars of Dance Moms are up to today.
Abby Lee Miller
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Abby Lee Miller’s journey in dance began under her mother, Maryen Lorrain Miller, who owned a dance studio. This foundation led Abby to establish the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC), the central location for Dance Moms. Her demanding teaching methods, often seen as controversial, were a focal point of the show, generating significant drama and numerous viral moments.
Beyond Dance Moms, Miller faced legal challenges, including bankruptcy fraud charges that led to a prison sentence in 2017. Following her release and subsequent diagnosis of Burkitt lymphoma, she has navigated significant health battles, including being confined to a wheelchair for a period. Despite these hardships, Miller’s passion for dance and choreography remains evident.
In early 2023, Miller sold the iconic Dance Moms studio, marking the end of an era for the physical location but not her brand. Though not involved in the Dance Moms reunion special due to requests from some cast members, she maintains connections with some of her former students, including JoJo Siwa. In recent interviews, Miller has reflected on her Dance Moms experience, acknowledging that she may have been too harsh on her young dancers, especially those she felt lacked natural talent. While she declined a cameo in the Dance Moms reboot, her legacy as a dance coach and reality TV personality is undeniable.
Maddie Ziegler
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Maddie Ziegler was a standout star from the beginning of Dance Moms, joining the show at just 7 years old. Known for her exceptional lyrical dance abilities and expressive performances, she quickly became Abby Lee Miller’s favored dancer, a dynamic that often fueled tension among the mothers and dancers.
Maddie’s career skyrocketed beyond Dance Moms, largely due to her collaborations with singer Sia. Her appearance in Sia’s “Chandelier” music video in 2014 became a viral sensation, amassing over 2 billion views and launching Maddie into mainstream fame. She continued to feature in Sia’s music videos for hits like “Elastic Heart” and “Cheap Thrills,” and performed alongside Sia at major events.
After leaving Dance Moms in 2016, Maddie transitioned into acting, securing roles in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. She also became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, and has worked as a model for high-end brands like Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi.
Maddie has been vocal about the pressures and negative aspects of her time on Dance Moms, describing it as a “toxic environment.” She has stated that she hasn’t spoken to Abby Lee Miller since leaving the show and feels at peace with that decision. Focusing on her acting and personal growth, Maddie continues to evolve as a performer and public figure, emphasizing the importance of speaking up for oneself and healing from past experiences.
Kenzie Ziegler
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Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, was another beloved member of the Dance Moms cast. As one of the youngest dancers on the show, Kenzie grew up in front of the cameras from season 1 to season 6, often navigating comparisons to her older sister.
Despite the pressures of being in her sister’s shadow, Kenzie forged her own path in entertainment. She has a strong bond with Maddie, who she credits as a significant source of advice and inspiration. Together, they even launched a podcast in 2022, Take 20 with Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, allowing fans to see a more personal side of them.
Kenzie has ventured into acting, with roles in the web series Total Eclipse and the film Let Us In. She has also established herself in the music industry, releasing two albums and popular singles like “paper” and “100 degrees.” Her reality TV journey continued with appearances on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer, where she placed third. Currently dating TikToker Tacoda Dubbs, Kenzie continues to balance her personal life with a thriving career in entertainment, embracing diverse opportunities beyond dance.
Melissa Gisoni
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Melissa Gisoni, the mother of Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, was a central figure among the Dance Moms moms. Known for her unwavering support of her daughters and occasional dramatic flair, Melissa often found herself amidst the show’s controversies, sometimes accused of seeking favor with Abby Lee Miller to benefit her daughters.
Melissa and her daughters left Dance Moms after season 6, citing a desire for a less stressful environment and more freedom for Maddie to pursue other career opportunities. Since leaving the show, Melissa has cultivated a strong online presence with a large following on Instagram and YouTube, where she shares insights into her life post-Dance Moms.
She also co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with fellow original Dance Moms mothers Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes. This platform allows them to reflect on their shared experiences on the show and connect with fans in a more intimate setting. Melissa’s focus remains on supporting her daughters’ flourishing careers and enjoying a less drama-filled life away from the intense spotlight of Dance Moms.
JoJo Siwa
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JoJo Siwa is arguably one of the most recognizable stars to emerge from Dance Moms. Joining the show in season 5, JoJo quickly became known for her vibrant personality, signature oversized hair bows, and energetic dance style. Her mother, Jessalynn Siwa, was equally memorable, often making JoJo’s iconic bows herself.
Despite only being a main cast member for seasons 5 and 6, JoJo’s impact was immense. She and her mother left Dance Moms after JoJo signed a deal with Nickelodeon, marking a significant step in her burgeoning entertainment career. Since then, JoJo has become a global brand, releasing her hit single “Boomerang” in 2016 and launching her successful line of JoJo’s Bows.
Her partnership with Nickelodeon led to numerous TV appearances, movies like Blurt! and The J Team, and hosting gigs. TIME Magazine named her one of the 100 Most Influential People of 2020, a testament to her widespread appeal and impact on young audiences. JoJo made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity to dance with a female professional partner and served as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance.
In early 2024, JoJo announced a career transition, embracing a more mature image and sound with her single “Karma.” This evolution signifies her ongoing growth and willingness to reinvent herself while staying true to her energetic and boundary-pushing spirit.
Jessalynn Siwa
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Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo Siwa’s mother, was a force to be reckoned with on Dance Moms. Bringing her own dance studio background to the show, Jessalynn was fiercely protective of JoJo and never hesitated to clash with Abby Lee Miller or the other mothers when she felt JoJo was being unfairly treated.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Jessalynn has continued to collaborate closely with JoJo, supporting her daughter’s diverse career ventures. Together, they created the Peacock competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, which launched the girl group XOMG POP!. Jessalynn remains JoJo’s biggest champion, consistently supporting her appearances on shows like Dancing with the Stars and Special Forces. Their close working relationship and strong mother-daughter bond remain central to both of their careers.
Chloé Lukasiak
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Chloé Lukasiak was a fan favorite on Dance Moms from seasons 1 through 4, known for her grace, artistry, and ongoing rivalry with Maddie Ziegler, often fueled by Abby Lee Miller. Her departure from the show in season 4 was emotional for both Chloé and viewers, though she briefly returned in season 7.
Post-Dance Moms, Chloé has carved out a multifaceted career. She maintains a significant presence on YouTube, sharing vlogs and reflections on her life, and has ventured into acting with roles in films like Loophole and The Message. Chloé also authored a memoir, Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World, detailing her experiences on Dance Moms and her journey to self-acceptance.
Reflecting on her time on the show, Chloé has been open about the negative impact of Abby Lee Miller’s treatment and the intense competition it fostered. She has spoken about the challenges she faced in overcoming the harsh criticisms she received as a young dancer. Recently single after a relationship with Brooklinn Khoury, Chloé continues to inspire fans with her resilience, creativity, and advocacy for mental well-being.
Christi Lukasiak
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Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was a prominent and outspoken figure on Dance Moms. Known for her fiery personality and memorable clashes with Abby Lee Miller and other mothers, particularly Melissa Gisoni, Christi was fiercely protective of Chloé and never shied away from confrontation.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Christi has transitioned into entrepreneurship and online content creation. She runs a successful business called Adulting101, offering life skills guidance to Gen Z women. Her other ventures include property rentals and co-hosting the Dance Moms rewatch podcast Back to the Barre with Kelly Hyland.
Christi is also involved with YourMomCares, a nonprofit organization focused on youth mental healthcare, demonstrating her commitment to important social causes. Her continued engagement with the Dance Moms community through her podcast and social media, combined with her entrepreneurial pursuits and advocacy work, showcase her dynamic post-reality TV career.
Nia Sioux
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Nia Sioux was a fixture on Dance Moms for the first seven seasons, making her the longest-running dancer on the show. Viewers watched Nia grow up on screen, navigating challenges and showcasing her resilience and versatility as a performer.
After Dance Moms, Nia expanded her horizons into acting, making her off-Broadway debut in Trip of Love and appearing on The Bold and the Beautiful. She also released original music, including empowering songs like “Star in Your Own Life” and “Slay,” and hosted her Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia.
Currently a student at UCLA, studying American literature and culture, Nia aims to become an author, blending her artistic talents with academic pursuits. While acknowledging the complex legacy of Dance Moms, Nia recognizes the show’s significant impact on her life, shaping her into the person she is today. She chose not to participate in the reunion special, prioritizing her personal path forward.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia Sioux’s mother, was known for her calm and composed demeanor on Dance Moms, often providing a voice of reason amidst the drama. An Ivy League graduate, Holly frequently clashed with Abby Lee Miller over issues of racial sensitivity and the portrayal of Nia on the show.
Since Dance Moms, Holly has continued to advocate for positive representation and empowerment. She co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with Melissa Gisoni, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes, offering insights and reflections on their shared experiences. In 2014, she published Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly, reflecting her focus on personal growth and mindfulness. Holly’s post-Dance Moms endeavors highlight her commitment to education, empowerment, and thoughtful commentary on media representation.
Brooke Hyland
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Brooke Hyland, the eldest dancer of the Hyland sisters, appeared on Dance Moms from seasons 1 through season 4. Known for her acrobatic dance style and at times reluctant participation in the intense dance environment, Brooke often expressed a desire for a more “normal” teenage life.
During her time on the show, Brooke released a self-titled album in 2013, showcasing her musical talents with songs like “Summer Love Song.” After leaving Dance Moms, she pursued higher education, graduating from Ohio University with a degree in marketing, management information systems, and business analytics.
Today, Brooke is a social media influencer with a substantial following on Instagram. In May 2024, she got engaged to her longtime boyfriend, Brian Thalman, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Brooke’s journey reflects a transition from the demanding world of competitive dance to a balanced life focused on personal and professional growth outside the reality TV spotlight.
Paige Hyland
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Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, also danced on Dance Moms from seasons 1 to 4. Her journey on the show was marked by both her dance performances and the legal action her mother took against Abby Lee Miller.
In 2014, Paige’s mother sued Abby Lee Miller for assault, alleging emotional abuse and a hostile environment. Though the lawsuit was dismissed in 2015, it underscored the intense pressures and conflicts that occurred behind the scenes of Dance Moms. After the show, Paige focused on her education, graduating from West Virginia University with a degree in business administration in 2023.
Like her sister, Paige has a strong social media presence, connecting with fans on Instagram. She has been in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift, a former college football player. Paige’s post-Dance Moms life emphasizes personal relationships and academic achievements, moving beyond the controversies and pressures of her reality TV past.
Kelly Hyland
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Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, has a long history with Abby Lee Miller, having been one of Miller’s students in her youth. On Dance Moms, Kelly was known for her passionate defenses of her daughters and her volatile relationship with Miller, which ultimately led to her and her daughters leaving the show during season 4.
Following a physical altercation with Abby Lee Miller, Kelly also faced legal charges, though both her assault charge and Paige’s lawsuit against Miller were later dismissed. Despite the tumultuous experiences, Kelly has found camaraderie with other Dance Moms mothers, co-hosting the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak and Because Mom Said So with Christi, Melissa, Holly, and Jill.
Kelly’s willingness to revisit and discuss her Dance Moms experiences, coupled with her podcasting ventures, demonstrates a journey of reflection and connection with the show’s fanbase. She and her daughters have expressed a sense of closure and gratitude for moving forward from the intense drama of the series.
Kendall Vertes
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Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained a cast member through season 7, becoming a consistent presence at ALDC, even briefly joining the rival Candy Apples team during her early seasons. Known for her contemporary dance style and determination, Kendall navigated the competitive environment of Dance Moms while also pursuing other creative avenues.
During her time on the show, Kendall launched a singing career, releasing her first single “Wear ‘Em Out” in 2015. After Dance Moms, she enrolled at James Madison University, where she joined the dance team and achieved national championship success in 2024, celebrating the win with a playful nod to Abby Lee Miller’s pyramid rankings.
Kendall has been open about the challenges of her Dance Moms experience but maintains close relationships with many of her former castmates, acknowledging the “trauma-bond” they share. Currently dating Clemson baseball player Andrew Ciufo, Kendall balances her personal life with her continued passion for dance and her academic pursuits.
Jill Vertes
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Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, was a prominent figure among the Dance Moms mothers, known for her assertive personality and unwavering advocacy for Kendall. Before joining the show, Jill worked in pharmaceutical sales, bringing a competitive drive to the dance mom dynamic.
On Dance Moms, Jill frequently clashed with Abby Lee Miller and other mothers over Kendall’s placements and opportunities, often humorously dubbed “Crazy Jill” by fans. Now, Jill co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa Gisoni, Kelly Hyland, and Holly Hatcher-Frazier, reflecting on their shared experiences and offering a retrospective perspective on the show’s drama.
Jill participated in the Dance Moms reunion special, where she admitted that revisiting clips from the show brought back intense emotions, highlighting the lasting impact of the Dance Moms experience on both the dancers and their mothers.
Kalani Hilliker
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Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4 and stayed through season 7, bringing a strong technical skill set and a calm demeanor to the ALDC team. Prior to Dance Moms, Kalani gained recognition on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, making her a seasoned competitor when she joined the show.
After Dance Moms, Kalani continued to dance and act, appearing in various TV shows and even returning to the reality competition world on America’s Got Talent. She has also become a dance teacher, aiming to provide a more positive and supportive learning environment for her students, drawing from her own experiences.
Kalani launched her skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her personal journey with mental health and well-being after the pressures of Dance Moms. In August 2024, she announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman, marking a joyful personal milestone. Despite acknowledging the “trauma” from Dance Moms, Kalani expresses gratitude for the opportunities the show provided and for Abby Lee Miller’s influence on her dance career.
Kira Girard
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Kira Girard, Kalani Hilliker’s mother, became a regular on Dance Moms from season 4 onwards. Known for her direct personality and at times controversial moments on the show, Kira was a steadfast supporter of Kalani’s dance ambitions.
After leaving Dance Moms with Kalani after season 7, Kira has largely remained out of the public eye, though she maintains an active presence on Instagram, sharing updates about her life and family. While not as publicly vocal as some of the other Dance Moms mothers post-show, Kira’s presence at the reunion, as seen in photos shared by her daughter, indicated a willingness to reconnect with the Dance Moms cast.
Vivi-Anne Stein
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Vivi-Anne Stein was introduced to audiences in season 1 of Dance Moms as the daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, owner of the rival Candy Apple’s Dance Center. Initially portrayed as uninterested in dance, Vivi-Anne became a memorable figure for her deadpan humor and iconic lines, such as “I don’t even like dancing.”
Despite her initial reluctance, Vivi-Anne did embrace dance over time and continued to perform after leaving Dance Moms. She also participated in cheerleading in high school and, after graduating in 2023, joined the cheer team at Cleveland State University. Vivi-Anne’s journey showcases a transformation from a seemingly indifferent child on reality TV to a young woman actively engaged in performance and team activities.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother, was Abby Lee Miller’s main rival on Dance Moms. As the owner of Candy Apple’s Dance Center, Cathy brought a competitive energy to the show, frequently clashing with Abby and the ALDC moms.
Cathy’s Candy Apple’s studio served as the primary rival to ALDC throughout many seasons of Dance Moms, contributing to the show’s ongoing narrative of studio competition. Even after stepping back from directly competing on the show in season 5, Cathy remained a recurring figure within the Dance Moms universe. She continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center and frequently shares updates about her life with Vivi-Anne on social media, maintaining her connection to the dance world.
Gianna “Gia” Martello
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Gianna “Gia” Martello was a constant presence on Dance Moms for all eight seasons, serving as Abby Lee Miller’s choreographer and right-hand woman. Working at ALDC for over 15 years, Gia played a crucial role in training the dancers and choreographing many of their award-winning routines.
Post-Dance Moms, Gia continues her career in dance, teaching and judging competitions. Her expertise and long-standing association with ALDC have solidified her reputation in the dance community. In her personal life, Gia got engaged to Steve Lynch in 2022 and recently shared her involvement in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video, showcasing her ongoing connections within the Dance Moms family and the broader entertainment industry.
The Dance Moms Legacy
The Dance Moms full cast members, both dancers and mothers, have collectively built a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the realm of reality television. From launching global superstars like Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler and JoJo Siwa to empowering entrepreneurs and advocates like Christi Lukasiak and Holly Hatcher-Frazier, the alumni of Dance Moms have diversified and thrived in numerous fields. While the show itself was known for its drama and intensity, it undeniably provided a platform for these individuals to showcase their talents and build careers that continue to evolve and inspire. As a new generation takes the stage in Dance Moms: A New Era, the original cast’s journey remains a fascinating chapter in the world of dance and reality TV.
