Five years following the final curtain call of “Dance Moms,” the beloved cast members are stepping back into the spotlight for a highly anticipated reunion. “Dance Moms: The Reunion,” a special two-hour event on Lifetime, promises to bring together six familiar faces from the show, along with their equally memorable mothers. Fans can expect to see Chloe Lukasiak with mom Christi Lukasiak, JoJo Siwa and mom Jessalynn Siwa, Brooke and Paige Hyland with mom Kelly Hyland, Kendall Vertes and mom Jill Vertes, and Kalani Hilliker and mom Kira Girard, as they reflect on their transformative experiences on the reality TV phenomenon. This reunion offers a unique opportunity to delve into “Dance Moms Then And Now” and witness how life has unfolded for these young dancers since their time under the intense studio lights.
In the trailer for “Dance Moms: The Reunion,” which has already generated considerable buzz online, the dancers offer glimpses into the emotional rollercoaster of their time on the show, which captivated audiences from 2011 to 2019. Chloe poignantly shares, “I thought I wasn’t enough in every single way,” highlighting the pressures faced by the young performers. Kalani adds to the narrative of complexity, stating, “I don’t think that anybody can explain how complicated all of our relationships are with her,” seemingly alluding to their former instructor, Abby Lee Miller. While the reunion promises candid reflections, Abby Lee Miller herself does not appear to be involved, and notable absences include fan favorites Maddie and Mackenzie Ziegler, and Nia Sioux Frazier. Despite these omissions, Kendall Vertes described the reunion as a “really happy homecoming” in a December interview with WHSV-TV, emphasizing the deep connection shared among the cast. “To be able to sit down with these girls and talk about all of our past trauma together, it felt like we’ve never left,” Kendall revealed, underlining the lasting impact of their shared experiences. She further noted the significance of the reunion as a platform to reclaim their voices, saying, “We never had the chance to speak up for ourselves and to stand up for ourselves. We were so young, and we just kept our mouths shut.” “Dance Moms then and now” is not just about individual journeys, but also about collective healing and reflection.
The reunion special is set to premiere on Wednesday, May 1, at 8 p.m. ET on Lifetime, and will be available for streaming the following day. As anticipation builds, let’s take a closer look at what Kendall, Chloe, JoJo, Paige, Brooke, Nia, Kalani and other beloved dancers have been doing since their “Dance Moms” era, exploring their transformations and achievements in the years since they traded their dance shoes for new adventures.
JoJo Siwa
JoJo Siwa
Then: JoJo Siwa, now 20, first captured attention on “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition” in 2013 before becoming a main cast member on “Dance Moms” from Season Five to Six (2015-2016). Even prior to officially joining the main cast, JoJo made an appearance during Season Four, marking her early integration into the “Dance Moms” world. Known for her dynamic performances and distinctive style featuring oversized bows and sparkling costumes, JoJo quickly became a standout personality. Her infectious energy and competitive spirit made her a memorable figure on the show, contributing to the “Dance Moms then and now” narrative that fans are eager to revisit.
Jessalynn Siwa and JoJo Siwa
Her mother, Jessalynn, a former dance teacher and studio owner, was a prominent figure alongside JoJo. Dispelling stereotypes, JoJo has often defended her mother against the “stage mom” label, emphasizing Jessalynn’s supportive and non-pressuring approach. In a 2019 interview with TODAY Parents, JoJo clarified, “A lot of people think, like, my mom is crazy. A lotta people think that she’s like, ‘No, you have to make a YouTube video, and you have to perform,’” countering public perception by stating her mother was “the opposite of that.” This close mother-daughter dynamic was a key part of JoJo’s “Dance Moms then” experience.
Now: JoJo’s career has experienced exponential growth since her “Dance Moms” days. Her 2016 hit song “Boomerang,” a powerful anthem against bullying, achieved double platinum certification and launched her first major concert tour, D.R.E.A.M. The Tour, in 2019. Continuing her trajectory in the entertainment industry, JoJo has participated in “Dancing With the Stars,” served as a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance,” and appeared on “America’s Got Talent.” Her versatility and broad appeal underscore her successful transition from reality TV star to mainstream entertainer, a significant chapter in her “Dance Moms then and now” story.
JoJo, who publicly came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community in 2021, is also recognized for her advocacy and positive influence. On Instagram, she reflected on her role model status, writing, “I felt I was ‘put on this earth to be a role model for kids,’ and she wanted her fans to know ‘that loving everyone for who they are no matter what’ is something she ‘will always believe in and always share.’” This commitment to using her platform for good further defines JoJo’s impactful journey since “Dance Moms.”
Chloe Lukasiak
Chloe Lukasiak
Then: Chloe Lukasiak, now 22, was a central figure in the first four seasons of “Dance Moms” (2011-2014), and made a return appearance in Season Seven in 2017. Her graceful dance style and natural talent made her a fan favorite, and her journey was closely followed as part of the “Dance Moms then” narrative.
Chloe’s departure from the show in Season Four was abrupt and emotionally charged. In a 2019 YouTube video, she revealed the reason for her exit was due to her former dance teacher, widely assumed to be Abby Lee Miller, mocking her medical condition related to her eye. Chloe explained, “The reason I left ‘Dance Moms’ was because my former dance teacher made fun of a medical condition I have. … Some might say that it wasn’t that serious, what she said, which I would disagree.” She also described herself as her “former dance teacher’s least-favorite student,” highlighting the challenging environment she navigated during her time on the show. This experience was a defining moment in Chloe’s “Dance Moms then” story.
Christi Lukasiak, Chloe Lukasiak
Chloe’s mother, Christi, was equally known for her assertive confrontations with Abby, often defending Chloe and challenging Abby’s harsh treatment of the young dancers. Christi became a voice for many viewers concerned about the well-being of the children on the show. Reflecting on the criticisms faced by the mothers, Christi told People in 2017, “I think the moms have all gotten a lot of slack like, ‘Why do you put up with this?’ and ‘You’re just doing this for the wrong reasons.’” She proudly acknowledged the strength and solidarity among the mothers, stating, “I’m really proud to say I’ve watched women I’ve known for a long time stand up and say, ‘You know what? We’re not doing this anymore.’” Christi’s protective nature was a constant element of “Dance Moms then”.
Now: Chloe transitioned into acting after “Dance Moms,” appearing in films such as “Center Stage: On Pointe,” “Loophole,” and “Next Level.” She has also showcased her talents in music videos, including “Dance (Just Rock),” by fellow “Dance Moms” alumna Nia Sioux. Her foray into acting demonstrates her adaptability and continued pursuit of artistic expression, a key aspect of “Dance Moms then and now”.
Chloe has also joined her mother Christi and Kelly Hyland, Brooke and Paige’s mom, on the podcast “Back to the Barre,” further extending her connection to the “Dance Moms” community and providing a platform to reflect on their shared experiences. This podcast represents a contemporary chapter in their “Dance Moms then and now” journey.
Paige Hyland
Paige Hyland
Then: Paige Hyland, 23, featured on “Dance Moms” with her sister Brooke, was a main cast member from Seasons One through Four. Her journey, alongside her sister, was a significant part of the early “Dance Moms then” seasons.
Paige and Brooke left the show after a significant conflict between their mother, Kelly, and Abby Lee Miller. This departure marked a turning point for the Hyland family and was a dramatic moment in “Dance Moms then”.
KIIS 102.7 Teen Choice Awards Lounge – Arrivals
Subsequently, a lawsuit was filed on Paige’s behalf against Abby Lee Miller. The lawsuit detailed allegations of “insult and abuse” directed at Paige by Abby “on an almost daily basis,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. Although the lawsuit was dismissed in 2015, it underscored the serious concerns regarding the treatment of young performers on the show and remains a notable aspect of Paige’s “Dance Moms then” narrative.
Now: Paige has become a successful social media influencer with over 3 million followers on Instagram. Her transition from reality TV to social media prominence illustrates a modern career path for many former child stars, a key element of “Dance Moms then and now”. Paige attended West Virginia University from 2019 to 2023, as listed on her LinkedIn page, indicating a focus on higher education alongside her social media career.
She also appeared in music videos with fellow “Dance Moms” cast members, including “Brooke: Summer Love Song” and “Lux: It’s Like Summer,” maintaining connections within the “Dance Moms” circle.
Brooke Hyland
Brooke Hyland
Then: Brooke Hyland, along with her sister Paige, was a main cast member on “Dance Moms” from Season One to Four. Her flexible dance skills and aerial talents made her a distinctive performer during her time on the show, contributing to the “Dance Moms then” era.
Now: Brooke transitioned away from the dance world after “Dance Moms,” focusing on academics and professional development. She earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing, management information systems, and business analytics from Ohio University in 2019, as detailed on her LinkedIn profile. This academic achievement signifies a significant shift in her career focus beyond dance, showcasing her post-“Dance Moms then” trajectory.
Similar to her sister Paige, Brooke is also a social media influencer, boasting over 4 million followers on Instagram. Her presence in the social media sphere highlights the continued public interest in the “Dance Moms” alumnae and their evolving careers.
Nia Sioux Frazier
Nia Sioux
Then: Nia Sioux Frazier, 22, was an original cast member of “Dance Moms,” appearing for the first seven seasons. Her consistent presence made her a central figure in the “Dance Moms then” narrative. In Season Seven, she became part of The Irreplaceables team, coached by Cheryl Burke, marking a shift in the show’s dynamics.
Her mother, Holly Hatcher-Frazier, often addressed the reasons for staying on the show despite the challenges and Abby’s sometimes critical approach towards Nia. Holly’s perspective offered insight into the family’s resilience and strategic decision-making during their time on “Dance Moms then.”
Teen Choice Awards 2014 – Arrivals
Holly explained her philosophy in a 2020 “Entertainment Tonight” interview: “I’m a person who believes very firmly that we leave when we say we’re ready to leave. I don’t want anyone in my children’s lives to dictate to them, ‘You leave because I’m forcing you out or because you’re not wanted.’ It’s your choice, and I always made it Nia’s choice. ‘Whenever you’re ready to leave we can leave.’ So, that’s the reason why we stayed.” This philosophy of empowerment was central to Nia and Holly’s approach to “Dance Moms then”.
Now: Nia is currently a senior at UCLA, pursuing higher education while continuing her multifaceted career. Following in her mother’s footsteps, she joined the Alpha Gamma chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, demonstrating a commitment to community and legacy. Her academic pursuits are a significant element of her “Dance Moms then and now” story.
Since leaving “Dance Moms,” Nia has actively pursued acting, playing Emma Barber on “The Bold and the Beautiful” from 2018 to 2019 and appearing in the 2024 adaptation of “Mean Girls.” She has also collaborated on music videos with other “Dance Moms” alumnae, including “Mack Z: It’s a Girl Party” and “Brooke: Summer Love Song,” maintaining her connection to her dance roots.
Furthermore, Nia has established herself as a social media influencer with nearly 6 million Instagram followers, leveraging her platform to connect with fans and share her journey beyond “Dance Moms.”
Kendall Vertes
Kendall Vertes
Then: Kendall Vertes, 21, was a main cast member on “Dance Moms” from Season Two through Season Seven. Her long tenure on the show made her a familiar face and a key part of the “Dance Moms then” era. In her final season, she joined The Irreplaceables, highlighting her continued development as a dancer. Camryn Bridges, Chloe, Kalani, and Nia were also original members of this team.
Kendall also explored a music career during “Dance Moms,” releasing singles like “Wear ‘Em Out,” “Out Loud,” and “Where Would I Be Without You.” Her ventures into music showcased her ambition and versatility even during her demanding schedule on the show, a part of her “Dance Moms then” experience.
House Of CB Flagship Store Launch – Arrivals
Her mother, Jill, often spoke about the intense dynamics between the dance moms and Abby, offering insights into the behind-the-scenes pressures of the show. Jill’s outspoken nature and protective instincts were defining characteristics of her presence on “Dance Moms then.”
Jill described the emotional authenticity of the show in a 2020 “Entertainment Tonight” interview: “The emotions were totally real, the tears were real. The anger, all of it was real because really we were protecting our children.” However, she also acknowledged the show’s production influence, stating, “They created situations to get us all wound up,” indicating a manufactured element to the drama.
Now: Kendall took a five-year hiatus from dance after leaving “Dance Moms,” prioritizing personal time and family. This break signifies a period of re-evaluation and personal growth in her “Dance Moms then and now” journey.
In a December interview with WHSV-TV, she explained, “I danced my entire life. I started when I was 2 years old. I had a very interesting childhood. I was dancing 24/7 for eight years straight, and it was time for me to take a little break, kind of be back home with my family.” This candid reflection highlights the intensity of her early career and the need for personal time.
In 2022, Kendall returned to dance, becoming a member of the JMU Dukettes, the official dance team of James Madison University. Her return to dance in a collegiate setting marks a new chapter in her dance career, blending passion with academic life. She is also a prominent social media influencer with over 11 million Instagram followers, further extending her public profile.
Kalani Hilliker
Kalani Hilliker
Then: Kalani Hilliker, 23, initially joined “Dance Moms” as a recurring cast member in Season Four and became a full-time member from Seasons Five to Seven. Her progression from recurring to main cast marked her growing prominence on the show and in the “Dance Moms then” narrative. Like Kendall, Chloe, and Nia, she joined The Irreplaceables in Season Seven, contributing to the shifting team dynamics.
Her mother, Kira, was known for her frequent clashes with Abby, adding to the dramatic tension on the show. Kira’s confrontational style and strong opinions were notable aspects of her presence during “Dance Moms then”.
Teen Choice Awards 2017
Now: Kalani is a dance teacher based in Scottsdale, Arizona, as indicated on her social media profiles. Her transition to teaching reflects a desire to nurture young dancers in a positive environment, a meaningful evolution in her “Dance Moms then and now” journey.
In an Instagram video in February, she shared her passion for teaching: “What I love about being a dance teacher is, I realized I just love kids. I think growing up being the oldest and always having younger siblings, being around kids has just always been so much fun for me. Obviously I grew up dancing and the environment sometimes was a little rough, so I think making a safe space for my dancers is something I really enjoy doing.” Her emphasis on creating a safe space contrasts with the intense environment of “Dance Moms,” highlighting her personal growth.
Kalani is also a social media influencer with over 7 million Instagram followers and founded a beauty, cosmetic, and personal care brand, Kare by Kalani. Her entrepreneurial ventures and continued social media presence showcase her diverse talents beyond dance.
Maddie Ziegler
Maddie Ziegler
Then: Maddie Ziegler, 21, along with her younger sister Mackenzie, was an original cast member on “Dance Moms,” appearing in the first six seasons. Her early and central role made her one of the most recognizable faces of “Dance Moms then”.
Maddie was often portrayed as Abby’s favorite student and consistently topped the show’s “pyramid” ranking system. This favored status was a recurring storyline throughout her time on the show, shaping her “Dance Moms then” experience.
KIIS 102.7 Teen Choice Awards Lounge – Arrivals
Her mother, Melissa Gisoni, shared insights with Cosmopolitan in 2016 about her daughters’ experiences on “Dance Moms” and their decision to leave: “’Dance Moms’ was really a great platform for my kids, but they were pretty much done with it. It’s the same thing over and over, week after week. My kids told me they didn’t want to do it anymore. When my kids aren’t happy anymore, I don’t care about anything else.” Melissa’s prioritization of her daughters’ well-being was a key factor in their departure from “Dance Moms then”.
Now: Maddie’s career reached a new level in 2014 when Sia discovered her on “Dance Moms” and cast her in the music video for “Chandelier.” This collaboration was a pivotal moment, propelling Maddie into mainstream recognition and beyond the “Dance Moms” audience. Her work with Sia marks a significant turning point in her “Dance Moms then and now” career trajectory.
Maddie went on to star in other Sia music videos and collaborate with artists like Todrick Hall and New Hope Club. She also ventured into acting, appearing in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” and starring in the coming-of-age comedy “Fitting In.” Her successful transition into acting solidifies her status as a versatile entertainer.
In a March 2024 interview with Teen Vogue, Maddie reflected on the pressures of her early career and her evolving perspective on work: “I’m ready to leave behind the perfectionist. I’m ready to leave behind the people-pleaser. I will carry those traits with me forever because that’s who I am, but I’m really proud of myself for setting boundaries in the last year.” This reflection indicates a mature and healthy approach to her career and personal well-being, a significant evolution in her “Dance Moms then and now” journey.
Mackenzie ‘Kenzie’ Ziegler
Mackenzie Ziegler
Then: Mackenzie Ziegler, 19, appeared on “Dance Moms” from Seasons One to Six alongside her sister Maddie and mother Melissa. Her energetic personality and journey on the show made her a beloved figure in the “Dance Moms then” era.
The sisters famously performed a duet in Season Three, a contemporary piece to “Run From Mother,” showcasing their sibling dynamic and dance talents. This duet became a memorable performance in “Dance Moms then”.
In Season Three, Mackenzie openly discussed the challenges of being compared to her older sister: “I don’t like when Abby always compares me to Maddie because I’m not Maddie, I’m Mackenzie.” This statement highlighted her desire for individual recognition and was a relatable sentiment for many viewers. Her struggle for individuality was a key aspect of her “Dance Moms then” experience.
Mackenzie also pursued a music career during “Dance Moms,” releasing her first studio album, “Mack Z,” in 2014, followed by “Phases” in 2018. Her early foray into music demonstrated her ambition and multifaceted talents even during her time on the show.
Now: Mackenzie has continued to pursue both acting and music since leaving “Dance Moms.” She starred in the web series “Total Eclipse” from 2018 to 2020 and participated in “Dancing With the Stars: Juniors” in 2018, showcasing her versatility in performing arts.
At 15, she signed with Arista Records and toured as the opening act for the pop group PrettyMuch in 2019, further establishing her music career. Her achievements in music and acting demonstrate a successful transition from reality TV to mainstream entertainment, a significant part of her “Dance Moms then and now” journey.
She and Maddie also collaborated with American Eagle on a collection, AE x Maddie & Kenzie, in 2023, expanding their brand and influence into fashion and retail. This collaboration highlights their continued relevance and marketability in the years since “Dance Moms.”
The “Dance Moms then and now” narrative is one of transformation, resilience, and diverse achievements. From the intense pressures of reality TV dance competitions to navigating careers in music, acting, social media, and beyond, the former cast members have carved out unique paths while carrying the shared experiences of their “Dance Moms” journey. The upcoming reunion special on Lifetime offers fans a nostalgic yet insightful look into these remarkable journeys, bridging the gap between “Dance Moms then and now.”
