Dance Moms, the reality TV sensation that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, became a cultural phenomenon and a launching pad for numerous young dancers. The Dance Moms cast, initially starting at Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh under the demanding Abby Lee Miller, captivated audiences with their talent, drama, and the intense relationships with their mothers. Talents like Maddie Ziegler, JoJo Siwa, and Chloé Lukasiak emerged from the show, achieving mainstream fame and success.
The award-winning series provided a glimpse into the rigorous world of competitive dance, highlighting Miller’s controversial coaching methods, including the infamous “pyramid” ranking system that added immense pressure on the young dancers. Despite the high-stress environment, many from the Dance Moms cast have maintained connections with Miller even after the show concluded, acknowledging her significant impact on their dance careers and the dance world at large.
More than a decade after season 1, the Dance Moms cast returned for a highly anticipated reunion special in May 2024. However, notable absences included Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, and Abby Lee Miller herself, who was reportedly uninvited at the request of several cast members. Simultaneously, a reboot, Dance Moms: A New Era, premiered on Hulu in August 2024, featuring a new generation of dancers under coach Gloria “Glo” Hampton.
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As a new chapter of Dance Moms begins, it’s the perfect time to explore what happened to the original Dance Moms cast. Where are these talented dancers and their equally famous mothers now? Let’s delve into the lives of the Dance Moms stars and see where their journey has taken them.
Abby Lee Miller
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Abby Lee Miller, the formidable dance coach and owner of Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC), was the central figure of Dance Moms. Growing up immersed in dance through her mother’s studio, Miller established ALDC as a prominent dance institution. Dance Moms amplified her notoriety, showcasing her demanding coaching style and sharp critiques, particularly directed at the dance moms themselves. Infamous moments include her verbal clashes and strict training methods that often sparked controversy and parental confrontations.
However, Miller’s success was shadowed by legal troubles. In 2015, she faced indictment for bankruptcy fraud, accused of concealing significant income related to Dance Moms. After initially denying the charges, she pleaded guilty in 2016 and received a prison sentence. She served time and was later released to a halfway house in 2018. Compounding her challenges, Miller was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, necessitating emergency spinal surgery and extensive treatment. Remarkably, she announced being cancer-free in 2019 and began regaining mobility after being wheelchair-bound.
In 2023, Miller sold the Dance Moms studio, marking a symbolic end to an era, though she retained her brand and legacy. Despite not being invited to the Dance Moms reunion special, Miller maintains relationships with some former students, including JoJo Siwa. In a 2024 interview, Miller reflected on her Dance Moms tenure, acknowledging that she was “too harsh” on some young dancers, indicating a degree of remorse and introspection about her methods and impact on the Dance Moms cast. Interestingly, despite past tensions, the coach of the Dance Moms reboot, Glo Hampton, mentioned reaching out to Miller for a cameo, though Miller declined, showcasing her complex relationship with the franchise.
Maddie Ziegler
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Maddie Ziegler, arguably the most recognized face from Dance Moms, was a central figure from the show’s inception in 2011 until 2016. Known for her exceptional lyrical dance skills and often favored by Abby Lee Miller, Maddie’s talent sometimes caused friction among the mothers. Her career skyrocketed after starring in Sia’s “Chandelier” music video in 2014, which garnered over two billion views and led to further collaborations with Sia on music videos and performances.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Maddie has transitioned into acting, with roles in films like The Fallout, West Side Story, and Music. She also became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, and has worked as a model for high-profile brands like Givenchy and Fendi. Despite her professional success, Maddie has openly discussed the pressures and “toxic environment” of Dance Moms, noting the negative comments and intense scrutiny she faced growing up on television. She revealed that she has not spoken to Abby Lee Miller since leaving the show and feels at peace with that distance. In 2024, Maddie spoke about healing from her childhood experiences and embracing her ability to advocate for herself, reflecting a journey of personal growth post-Dance Moms cast member status.
Kenzie Ziegler
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Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, was the youngest dancer among the original Dance Moms cast. She appeared on the show from season 1 to 6, often navigating comparisons to her older sister. Despite this, the sisters share a close bond and have publicly supported each other’s endeavors. Kenzie and Maddie even co-hosted a podcast, Take 20 with Maddie & Kenzie Ziegler, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their lives.
Like Maddie, Kenzie has pursued acting, starring in the web series Total Eclipse and the film Let Us In. She has also ventured into music, releasing two albums and popular singles. Kenzie has continued her reality TV presence on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer. While Kenzie did not participate in the Dance Moms reunion, she clarified that her absence was not due to any conflict with the cast, but rather a desire to avoid revisiting that period of her life. Her career trajectory showcases a successful transition from a Dance Moms cast member to a versatile entertainer.
Melissa Gisoni
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Melissa Gisoni, mother to Maddie and Kenzie, was a prominent figure among the Dance Moms cast mothers. Often portrayed as favoring Maddie, she sometimes faced criticism for seemingly seeking favor with Abby Lee Miller. Melissa and her daughters left Dance Moms after season 6, citing a desire for more freedom and less stress for her children.
Since leaving the show, Melissa has maintained a strong social media presence and launched a YouTube channel, sharing insights into her life post-Dance Moms. She also co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with other original Dance Moms mothers: Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes. This podcast has allowed the Dance Moms cast mothers to reconnect with fans and share their perspectives on their experiences on the show and beyond.
JoJo Siwa
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JoJo Siwa, known for her signature bows and vibrant personality, became one of the most famous dancers from Dance Moms, despite joining as a main cast member in seasons 5 and 6. Her mother, Jessalynn Siwa, often crafted JoJo’s iconic hair bows, which became a significant part of JoJo’s brand. JoJo and Jess left Dance Moms to pursue opportunities with Nickelodeon.
Post-Dance Moms, JoJo’s career exploded. Her debut single, “Boomerang,” was a massive hit, and her brand, JoJo’s Bows, became a sensation. JoJo signed a talent deal with Nickelodeon, leading to TV appearances, merchandise lines, and movie roles. She was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020 and has amassed a huge social media following. JoJo made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity with a female professional dance partner and served as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance. In a recent career evolution, JoJo has embraced a more mature image and musical style with her 2024 single “Karma,” signaling a significant transition from her initial Dance Moms persona and solidifying her status as a multifaceted entertainer who emerged from the Dance Moms cast.
Jessalynn Siwa
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Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was a memorable presence on Dance Moms, known for her strong opinions and support for JoJo. As a dance studio owner herself, Jessalynn often clashed with Abby Lee Miller, adding to the show’s drama.
Since Dance Moms, Jessalynn has continued to collaborate with JoJo, co-creating the competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, which launched the girl group XOMG POP!. Jessalynn remains a key figure in JoJo’s career, consistently supporting her daughter’s ventures, reinforcing the enduring bond between this Dance Moms cast mother and daughter duo.
Chloé Lukasiak
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Chloé Lukasiak was a beloved member of the Dance Moms cast during seasons 1 through 4 and briefly returned in season 7. Her departure in season 4 stemmed from her mother’s conflict with Abby Lee Miller. Chloé has been candid about her negative experiences on Dance Moms, describing it as a challenging period in her life.
Post-Dance Moms, Chloé built a successful YouTube channel and pursued acting and writing, including her memoir Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World. Reflecting on Dance Moms: The Reunion, Chloé acknowledged the lasting impact of Miller’s treatment and the competitive environment. She was in a relationship with Brooklinn Khoury from 2020 to 2023. Chloé’s journey exemplifies overcoming challenges and forging a path beyond the Dance Moms spotlight, demonstrating the diverse paths taken by the Dance Moms cast.
Christi Lukasiak
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Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was known for her outspoken nature and frequent clashes with Abby Lee Miller and other Dance Moms cast mothers. Her confrontations were a staple of the show’s dramatic storylines.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Christi has become a successful entrepreneur and social media influencer. She runs Adulting101, a life skills program for Gen Z women, and manages property rentals. Christi co-hosts the Dance Moms rewatch podcast Back to the Barre with Kelly Hyland and is involved with YourMomCares, a nonprofit focused on youth mental healthcare. Christi’s post-Dance Moms endeavors showcase her transition from reality TV personality to businesswoman and advocate, a testament to the diverse paths taken by the Dance Moms cast mothers.
Nia Sioux
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Nia Sioux was the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, appearing in the first seven seasons. Her journey on the show highlighted her resilience and growth amidst challenges.
After Dance Moms, Nia pursued acting, music, and academics. She made her off-Broadway debut, appeared in films and TV series, and released original music. Nia also hosted her Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia. Currently, Nia is a student at UCLA, studying American literature and culture, with aspirations to become an author. She celebrated her second anniversary with her boyfriend, Gabriel Hawkins, in 2024. Nia has reflected on the profound impact of Dance Moms on her life, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of her experience as a Dance Moms cast member. She chose not to participate in the reunion, citing a desire to avoid unnecessary drama.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia’s mother, was known for her composed demeanor on Dance Moms, often providing a voice of reason amidst the chaos. However, she also fiercely advocated for Nia, particularly regarding issues of racial sensitivity within the dance industry.
Since Dance Moms, Holly co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast and published the book Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly. In 2021, she spoke about her and Nia’s experiences on Dance Moms, highlighting instances of racial insensitivity and the challenges of navigating those issues on reality television. Holly’s post-Dance Moms endeavors reflect her continued intellectual and advocacy work, representing the diverse achievements of the Dance Moms cast mothers.
Brooke Hyland
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Brooke Hyland was one of the original dancers on Dance Moms, appearing from seasons 1 through 4 with her sister Paige. Brooke was the oldest dancer on the team and often expressed a desire for a more normal teenage life outside of dance.
After leaving Dance Moms, Brooke released a self-titled album in 2013 and graduated from Ohio University with a business degree. She is now a social media influencer with a large following. In May 2024, Brooke got engaged to Brian Thalman, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Brooke’s journey from Dance Moms to influencer and engaged woman highlights the varied life paths of the Dance Moms cast members.
Paige Hyland
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Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, also starred on Dance Moms from seasons 1 to 4. In 2014, Paige and her mother sued Abby Lee Miller for emotional distress, though the lawsuit was later dismissed.
Following Dance Moms, Paige graduated from West Virginia University with a business administration degree in 2023. She maintains an active social media presence and has been in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift. Paige’s post-Dance Moms life reflects a focus on education and personal relationships, showcasing another facet of the Dance Moms cast’s diverse experiences after the show.
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. Kelly was known for her fiery personality and protective nature on Dance Moms. She and her daughters left the show during season 4 after a significant altercation with Miller, which led to lawsuits from both sides, later dismissed.
Since Dance Moms, Kelly co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak and the Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa, Holly, and Jill. Reflecting on the Dance Moms reunion, Brooke and Paige expressed gratitude for their mother’s actions, viewing her as a supportive parent who prioritized their well-being, illustrating the complex dynamics within the Dance Moms cast families.
Kendall Vertes
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Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and stayed until season 7. Her time on the show saw her develop both as a dancer and a singer, launching her music career with her first single in 2015.
After Dance Moms, Kendall attended James Madison University, where she joined the dance team and won a national championship in 2024, referencing Dance Moms in her celebratory posts. She has been open about the challenges of Dance Moms but remains close with many cast members. Kendall’s continued success in dance and her ability to maintain friendships from the show underscore the enduring bonds formed within the Dance Moms cast.
Jill Vertes
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Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, was known for her assertive personality and strong advocacy for Kendall on Dance Moms. Her interactions with Abby Lee Miller and the other mothers often contributed to the show’s dramatic tension.
Currently, Jill co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast. At the Dance Moms reunion, Jill reflected on the emotional toll of the show, noting that revisiting past clips brought back difficult memories and underscored the intense emotions experienced by the Dance Moms cast and their mothers.
Kalani Hilliker
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Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4 and remained until season 7, after gaining prior reality TV experience on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition.
Post-Dance Moms, Kalani has continued to dance, act, and teach dance. She launched her skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her mental health journey after the show. Despite acknowledging the “trauma” from Dance Moms, Kalani expresses gratitude for Abby Lee Miller’s influence on her career. She announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman in August 2024, adding a personal milestone to her post-Dance Moms journey, showcasing the diverse paths of the Dance Moms cast members.
Kira Girard
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Kira Girard, Kalani’s mother, was a regular on Dance Moms from season 4 onwards. After leaving the show with Kalani, Kira has largely remained out of the public eye, though she occasionally shares updates on social media. She appeared in photos from the Dance Moms reunion set, indicating her continued connection with the Dance Moms cast.
Vivi-Anne Stein
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Vivi-Anne Stein, daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, was part of Dance Moms from season 1 as a representative of the rival Candy Apple’s Dance Center. Known for her humorous indifference to dance on the show, Vivi-Anne became a fan favorite.
Despite her initial reluctance to dance on Dance Moms, Vivi-Anne continued to perform after the show, later becoming a cheerleader in high school and joining the cheer team at Cleveland State University after graduating in 2023. Vivi-Anne’s trajectory from reluctant dancer to college cheerleader demonstrates the unexpected paths taken by some of the younger Dance Moms cast members.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother, owned Candy Apple’s Dance Center and was a central figure in the Dance Moms rivalry narrative. Her studio often competed against Abby Lee Dance Company, creating significant drama on the show.
Cathy continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center and frequently shares updates about her life and studio activities, maintaining her presence in the dance community long after her time on Dance Moms.
Gianna “Gia” Martello
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Gianna “Gia” Martello was the choreographer for Abby Lee Dance Company throughout all eight seasons of Dance Moms. She played a crucial role in training the dancers and choreographing their routines.
After Dance Moms, Gianna continues to teach dance and judge competitions. She got engaged in 2022 and was involved in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video in 2024, demonstrating her ongoing connections within the Dance Moms network and her continued career in the dance industry.
Conclusion
The Dance Moms cast, both the dancers and their mothers, have navigated diverse paths since their time on the show. From achieving mainstream fame and launching multifaceted careers to pursuing education and entrepreneurship, their journeys reflect resilience, ambition, and the lasting impact of their Dance Moms experience. While the show was known for its drama and intensity, it undeniably served as a pivotal chapter in the lives of these individuals, shaping their trajectories in entertainment, business, and beyond. As a new era of Dance Moms begins, the legacy of the original Dance Moms cast continues to fascinate and inspire audiences worldwide.
