Maddie Ziegler, a name synonymous with dance and early reality television fame, has successfully transitioned from the competitive world of Dance Moms to a promising acting career in Hollywood. While her initial exposure came under the intense spotlight of reality TV, Ziegler is now carving out her own path, proving her versatility and determination in the film industry. Her recent role in Fitting In marks a significant step in this evolution, showcasing her growth as an actress and her ambition to be recognized beyond her dance background.
In Fitting In, Ziegler took on her first leading role, a challenge she embraced wholeheartedly. Being number one on the call sheet meant long and demanding days on set, but for Ziegler, this was not a deterrent. Her inherently competitive nature thrives on challenges, making the experience of Fitting In particularly rewarding. She recalls lightheartedly dismissing stress on set, a coping mechanism that highlights her resilience and positive attitude even under pressure. This film was more than just another project; it was a pivotal moment in her career, signifying a new chapter. The film’s impact resonated deeply with Ziegler, from the intimate filming experience to the surreal moment of seeing showtimes at her local Los Angeles theater. Fitting In and the character Lindy have become an integral part of her journey, instilling a sense of pride rarely felt by the self-critical young actress. “I did things that I didn’t know I was capable of,” she reflected, acknowledging her personal growth and expanding capabilities.
Dance, the foundation of Maddie Ziegler’s early fame, remains a vital part of her identity and passion. She affirms that dance will always be a significant aspect of her life, something she intends to pursue continuously. However, Ziegler is consciously navigating her career to avoid being typecast solely as a dancer. She is acutely aware that while her dance background is a valuable asset, it doesn’t define her potential as a storyteller through acting. This awareness demonstrates a mature and strategic approach to her career, aiming for roles that leverage her talents without limiting her artistic range.
With two feature films already under her belt and a third on the horizon, Ziegler’s focus is firmly set on building a lasting and impactful career in Hollywood. She is determined to distinguish herself from the child star image cultivated during her Dance Moms years, eager to be recognized as the accomplished young woman she has become. Ziegler acknowledges the complex relationship with her early fame, understanding that Dance Moms played an undeniable role in her current success. “If I didn’t do it, I would not be where I am right now at all,” she admits, recognizing the show’s role in connecting her with Sia and igniting her passion for acting through music videos. This perspective reveals a nuanced understanding of her past, acknowledging its influence while actively shaping her future.
Reflecting on the transition from child star to adult actor, Ziegler is candid about the challenges. The intense public exposure and the blurring lines between her personal life and on-screen persona have left their mark. She speaks of days filled with a sense of unease, a reminder of the pressures and scrutiny she faced growing up on national television. However, acting has become a powerful tool for Ziegler to reclaim her narrative and agency. Looking ahead, she expresses admiration for industry leaders like Margot Robbie and Reese Witherspoon, who have successfully established their own production companies. Inspired by their multifaceted careers, Ziegler envisions a similar path for herself, aiming to expand her influence beyond acting. Her experiences on women-led sets have solidified her commitment to supporting greater representation and opportunities for women in the broader film industry. Furthermore, Ziegler harbors ambitions for physically demanding roles, even expressing interest in playing a female assassin, drawing inspiration from Scarlett Johansson’s role in Lucy. She recognizes that her extensive dance training could be invaluable in such roles, potentially allowing her to perform her own stunts. Her drive and passion for her craft are evident when she states, “I don’t know what my life would be like without working, but I love it so much and I don’t want to stop.”
Maddie Ziegler’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Her upcoming project, My Old Ass, filmed immediately after Fitting In, further demonstrates her dedication and growing presence in the film world. The feature film, acquired by Amazon MGM for $15 million after its Sundance premiere, features Ziegler alongside Aubrey Plaza. Joining the cast just weeks before filming commenced, Ziegler continues to seek out diverse roles and collaborate with acclaimed filmmakers, solidifying her position as a rising star to watch. From her early days on Dance Moms to her current trajectory in Hollywood, Maddie Ziegler’s journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering ambition.
