Leigha Sanderson, a 16-year-old dancer with spina bifida, always dreamed of dancing stardom. Despite facing significant health challenges since birth, her talent and determination shone brightly in the competitive dance world, even landing her appearances on the Netflix show Dancing Queen and America’s Got Talent. Her journey took an exciting turn when she auditioned for Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, a reality TV competition hosted by the effervescent pop icon, dancer, and Gen Z sensation, JoJo Siwa. The prize? A spot in XOMG Pop!, the next big girl group envisioned by JoJo and her mother, Jessalynn Siwa. For Leigha, a long-time “Siwanatorz” and admirer of JoJo’s energetic performances, this was a dream come true. However, behind the glitter and bows, Leigha and her mother, Anjie Sanderson, allege a starkly different reality, one marred by grueling conditions and emotional distress under the Siwas’ management.
From Dance Moms darling to global phenomenon, JoJo Siwa’s rise to fame is a testament to her infectious energy and savvy brand building. Beginning with Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition and solidifying her fan-favorite status on Dance Moms, JoJo’s spunky personality and signature bows catapulted her into a multi-faceted career. She seamlessly transitioned into acting, influencing, and pop music, partnering with Nickelodeon and launching a vast empire of merchandise, from books and dolls to clothing and accessories. Her vibrant, candy-colored aesthetic and relentlessly cheerful persona resonated deeply with young girls, who proudly donned the “Siwanatorz” moniker.
In recent years, JoJo has navigated a more mature phase in her public life. Coming out as queer in 2021, she has become a vocal LGBTQ+ activist and social media powerhouse, boasting over 45.5 million followers on TikTok. Her personal life, including relationships with influencer exes, has become fodder for tabloids, and her style has evolved towards a more punk-influenced, monochromatic look. Adding another dimension to her career, JoJo joined the judging panel of Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance in January, showcasing her dance expertise on a prominent platform.
Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, has been instrumental in shaping JoJo’s career trajectory. As a former dance studio owner, Jessalynn embraced the role of the quintessential stage mom on Dance Moms, famously crafting JoJo’s iconic bows and engaging in heated confrontations with dance instructor Abby Lee Miller. After JoJo’s Nickelodeon deal in 2017, Jessalynn remained a close collaborator, driving her daughter’s ambition to become “the next Hannah Montana,” as Jessalynn herself stated in a Rolling Stone interview.
Leigha Sanderson shared this aspiration for superstardom, fueled by her admiration for JoJo. Having previously navigated reality TV on Dancing Queen, Leigha felt prepared for the challenges of Siwas Dance Pop Revolution. Winning a spot in XOMG Pop! seemed like the perfect launchpad to global fame. While Anjie harbored initial reservations about uprooting their lives and leaving her other children in Texas, the potential opportunity for Leigha felt too significant to ignore. “A person with spina bifida shouldn’t be able to do the things that she’s doing,” Leigha’s father, Cody, remarked, emphasizing the need to seize every chance for Leigha to perform.
In early 2021, Leigha and Anjie embarked on their Los Angeles journey, full of hope and anticipation. However, the subsequent two years allegedly deviated sharply from their dreams, unfolding into a period the Sandersons describe as deeply disappointing and even harmful.
XOMG Pop!, as pictured in Episode 108 of Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution. Alt text: XOMG Pop! group members including Leigha Sanderson and JoJo Siwa dance energetically on stage during Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution.
Grueling Rehearsals and Allegations of Mistreatment
According to the Sandersons and multiple sources close to the production, the reality behind the scenes of XOMG Pop! was far from the glitz and glamour portrayed on screen. They allege that the Siwas subjected the young members to punishing rehearsal schedules, often sacrificing school breaks and offering minimal compensation. Furthermore, the Sandersons claim Leigha was pressured to perform under intense physical strain. They recount an instance where Jessalynn allegedly urged Leigha to participate in a video shoot mere weeks after spinal cord surgery. In a particularly disturbing allegation, the Sandersons describe an incident where Leigha began bleeding through her bellybutton during rehearsals for the Children’s and Family Emmys, hosted by JoJo. Instead of prioritizing Leigha’s well-being, Jessalynn allegedly instructed her to use a maxi pad to prevent costume stains, dismissing the serious nature of her medical issue.
For the first time, Anjie and Leigha Sanderson have publicly shared their experiences with Rolling Stone, detailing their nearly two-year involvement with XOMG Pop. They allege that Jessalynn’s behavior towards the children was overtly cruel, including name-calling and, in one instance, allegedly shaming a contestant for having a disability. Sources also depict JoJo as being domineering andSharp contrast to her public persona, allegedly exhibiting nasty behavior and fostering a cutthroat environment within the group, even after filming concluded. Favoritism and the pitting of members against each other reportedly became commonplace.
Rolling Stone‘s investigation corroborates these allegations through interviews with multiple sources connected to Dance Pop Revolution and the Siwas, as well as a review of extensive documentation, including contracts, text messages, and emails. Sources allege a pattern of the Siwas and producers dangling the promise of stardom while simultaneously subjecting the young XOMG Pop! members to berating treatment and encouraging on-camera tears. One production source described a manipulative cycle of “highs and lows,” where children were emotionally manipulated throughout the day, only to be offered gifts like candy baskets and Nintendo Switches in their hotel rooms afterward. (The production company disputes the claim of gift-giving and encouraging tears.)
When Anjie voiced her concerns about XOMG Pop! to other mothers and a studio teacher, the Sandersons allege that Jessalynn was informed, leading to Leigha’s abrupt dismissal from the group. “Leigha and I were in a dark, dark place for months and months that I don’t think we were healthy enough to speak out about,” Anjie confessed, highlighting the emotional toll of their experience. Now, having had time to heal, they feel ready to share their story.
In response to detailed allegations, the Siwas, through their attorney Bryan Freedman, vehemently denied the claims, asserting that Anjie’s “abusive behavior” was the reason for Leigha’s removal from the group. Freedman characterized Jess Siwa’s actions as protecting “the staff, the other girls and their families.” They did not address allegations beyond those directly involving the Sandersons or explain the high turnover rate of XOMG Pop! members.
XOMG Pop!’s Rise and Member Turnover
Despite the alleged behind-the-scenes turmoil, XOMG Pop! cultivated a dedicated tween and young teen fan base with catchy pop tunes like “Party Like a Pop Star,” “Candy Hearts,” and “Disco Believer.” They amassed over 15 million followers across social media platforms and garnered 50 million views on TikTok. A Christmas EP collaboration with Meghan Trainor in November 2023 further elevated their mainstream appeal.
Mirroring JoJo’s success, XOMG Pop! benefited from a significant merchandising push, featuring clothing, accessories, and bedding available on Amazon and Target. The original seven members, including Leigha, were positioned as the successors to JoJo Siwa’s candy-colored empire, embarking on mall tours, performing on America’s Got Talent, and even promoting their own cruise.
However, XOMG Pop! also faced public scrutiny, particularly regarding its high member turnover. Four original winners – Kiya Barczyszyn, Kinley Cunningham, Leigha Sanderson, and Bella Llerena – left the group within a year and a half under unclear circumstances, with minimal explanation from the Siwas. (Mothers of the other departed members declined to comment to Rolling Stone; Anjie stated she was the only mother who did not sign a non-disclosure agreement.)
In contrast, mothers of the remaining XOMG Pop! members issued statements to Rolling Stone via a Siwa representative, praising their positive experiences with the group. These anonymous statements lauded Jessalynn’s care for the girls and JoJo’s supportive “older sister” role, emphasizing the value of the Siwas’ investment in the group. One mother expressed disbelief at the allegations, while another attested to the “healthy, positive environment.” Another worried that the allegations from “disgruntled parents” would harm the children’s dreams and hard work.
Lack of Protection for Child Performers in the Digital Age
The allegations against the Siwas underscore a growing concern within the entertainment industry: the insufficient protections for child performers, especially in the unregulated realm of social media. The rise of social media stardom has outpaced legal safeguards, leaving young creators vulnerable. Several states, including California, are considering legislation, like the proposed Coogan Law expansion, to mandate a percentage of minors’ social media earnings be placed in trust accounts.
While the Coogan Law exists for child actors in traditional entertainment, it hasn’t kept pace with the digital landscape, exposing child content creators to potential financial exploitation, according to Ed Howard of the Children’s Advocacy Institute. He points out the disparity in protection between children in traditional media and those creating online content.
Howard suggests that XOMG Pop!, originating from a mainstream network reality show, blurs the lines and may fall under traditional commercial enterprise regulations. Evidence suggests the Siwas attempted to comply with some regulations, providing an on-set teacher and setting up Coogan trusts. However, the Sandersons argue that Leigha was not compensated or protected for work outside the reality show, such as social media content and brand deals, highlighting the lack of comprehensive safeguards for children seeking online fame in the 2020s.
Anjie Sanderson views their experience as a cautionary tale for parents navigating Hollywood, urging them to “do your research” and avoid being “starstruck.” Her message to Jessalynn Siwa is pointed: “You’re a mom. And the way that you hurt these kids is not OK.”
The Reality of Siwas Dance Pop Revolution
SIWAS DANCE POP REVOLUTION premiered on Peacock in November 2021, marketed as the successor to Dance Moms. JoJo and Jessalynn were presented as mentors and benefactors, welcoming contestants into a lavish mansion, promising to create a “phenomenon.” JoJo jokingly warned the young hopefuls about her mother’s demanding nature, while Jessalynn vowed to make the group a sensation.
JoJo emphasized the blurred lines between their professional and personal relationship with her mother, telling E! News in 2021 that there’s “no line” between work and family. Sources close to production suggest the show and XOMG Pop! were conceived as a project for Jessalynn as JoJo transitioned to a more mature career phase. One source implied it was like Jessalynn getting “new little dolls to play with” so JoJo could move on from her child star image.
Anjie Sanderson was surprised to discover Dance Pop Revolution was a competition show, not a Making the Band-style docuseries. (The production company disputes this, stating it was always pitched as a competition.) Production sources confirmed the initial concept was a gentler Dance Moms iteration. “With what Jess and JoJo went through on Dance Moms, we thought they wouldn’t want to do anything that would make a child feel a certain way or paint them in a certain light,” one source said.
However, tensions arose quickly within the cast and between the Siwas and contestants. Sources attribute this to the competitive nature of the show, pitting children against each other. Instances of Jessalynn comparing contestants and producers allegedly encouraging dramatic eliminations contributed to a stressful environment. (The production company denies staging overly dramatic exit interviews.)
Anjie and Leigha Sanderson share their story. Alt text: Leigha and Anjie Sanderson pose for a portrait, expressing their experiences with XOMG Pop and JoJo Siwa.
“It’s Not a Good Day Unless You Make a Kid Cry”
One production source revealed a disturbing adage among some producers: “It’s not a good day unless you make a kid cry.” Anjie Sanderson corroborated hearing such a comment. While the production company denies this, another source confirmed the remark was consistent with the on-set atmosphere.
Sources allege producers actively encouraged drama and tension, a common reality TV tactic, but amplified by the young age of the contestants, some as young as eight. Anjie believes the show’s editing portrayed her negatively, citing a scene where Leigha’s ukulele performance was allegedly staged and manipulated to appear opportunistic. (Production sources confirmed producer staging but denied malicious intent.)
The Sandersons describe an environment of constant fear and pressure to express gratitude to the Siwas. “You’re kind of taught from the beginning you need to act grateful and thankful at all times, and thank JoJo and Jess for every little thing,” Anjie stated, highlighting the power dynamic.
Jessalynn’s alleged verbal abuse during rehearsals is also detailed. Sources claim she berated a contestant with hypotonia, mocking her physical limitations and speech. (These incidents reportedly did not air, and the targeted contestant did not comment. The Siwas did not respond to questions about these allegations.)
Life After the Show: Financial Strain and Exhausting Schedules
Sources indicate conditions worsened after Dance Pop Revolution filming ended and XOMG Pop! transitioned into a full-time music act. The Sandersons claim they frequently paid out-of-pocket for expenses like food and transportation without reimbursement and received no payment for individual content shoots.
Child labor laws in California mandate minimum hourly wages for minors on set. However, attorney Eugene Lee notes these laws may not cover social media content creation, creating a legal gray area. Leigha’s 1099 tax form further complicates matters by classifying her as a non-employee, potentially hindering legal recourse. Despite this, Lee found the case potentially “worthwhile” to pursue.
Anjie also alleges discrepancies in promised album earnings. While a $10,000 payment was promised for their first album, they reportedly received only around $4,000, with Jessalynn citing expenses for an Airbnb. (A deposit receipt seems to support this claim.)
Despite the Siwas renting a “content house” for XOMG Pop! in 2022, the children reportedly did not live there. Anjie alleges that she and Leigha spent months sleeping on inflatable mattresses in Kinley’s dance studio, facing a precarious financial situation after Anjie closed her daycare to support Leigha’s dream. Fear of jeopardizing Leigha’s position or facing legal action prevented Anjie from speaking out. Kiya Barczyszyn’s earlier abrupt dismissal in 2022 reinforced the group’s unstable environment.
“You have to understand the atmosphere,” Anjie explained. “You’re not allowed to say anything. You can’t question anything. You’re living in fear.” Desperate for income, Anjie and Bella’s mother allegedly worked directly for Jessalynn, cleaning JoJo’s house for $20 an hour. (Bella’s mother did not comment.)
Exhausting rehearsal schedules further strained the girls, leaving limited time for schooling. Music video shoots reportedly lasted up to nine hours, with late-night call times. Leigha described falling behind in school due to the demanding schedule. (Calendars and sources confirm this schedule.)
JoJo Siwa and XOMG Pop! on stage at the 2022 Children’s & Family Creative Arts Emmys. Alt text: XOMG Pop! performs with JoJo Siwa at the 2022 Children’s & Family Creative Arts Emmys, showcasing energetic dance moves and pop star charisma.
Leigha’s academic records show minimal schoolwork during December 2022. While an on-set teacher claims Acellus records are incomplete and that parents never complained, multiple sources contend schooling was inconsistent and the girls fell behind academically. The teacher maintained a “child-centered focus” and adherence to California labor laws.
Continued Competition and Public Humiliation
Even after the show, the competitive dynamic persisted. XOMG Pop! members were pressured to create endless social media content for no direct pay, but with a promised $500 weekly prize for the most viewed TikTok, fostering a cutthroat environment. Leigha initially enjoyed the videos but found the constant competition divisive. “Everyone was still pitted against each other the entire time,” she said. “There was still a divide.”
During rehearsals, JoJo allegedly encouraged comparisons among the girls, creating tension and contradicting her public image of positivity. Leigha recounted a humiliating incident at the Mall of America where JoJo allegedly screamed insults into their headsets during a performance, criticizing their energy and sloppiness in front of thousands of spectators. (A source confirmed this incident. The Siwas did not address this specific allegation.)
Health Crisis and Dismissal
In late 2022, Leigha experienced severe health issues related to her spina bifida, requiring spinal surgery in December. While the Siwas sent flowers and well wishes, Jessalynn allegedly pressured Leigha to return to rehearsals just three and a half weeks post-surgery, despite doctor’s orders for limited activity, to prepare for the “Disco Believer” video shoot.
Anjie’s concerns escalated, citing financial strain and Leigha’s declining health. Conflicts with Jessalynn and other mothers led to Anjie being temporarily barred from rehearsals, creating friction with Leigha, who now understands her mother’s protective intentions.
Anjie grapples with the decision to stay in XOMG Pop! as long as they did, influenced by Leigha’s determination and the allure of promised opportunities like an Australian tour, toy deals, and a Christmas movie. She admits to “drinking the Kool-Aid” and regrets not pulling Leigha out sooner.
Leigha’s departure from XOMG Pop! was not voluntary. On May 3, 2023, a verbal altercation between Anjie and other mothers and the teacher regarding grueling hours and erratic schooling led to Jessalynn demanding an apology from Anjie. Text messages reveal Jessalynn’s anger and accusations of Anjie being an “asshole.”
Despite Anjie’s pleas to keep Leigha in the group, even offering to assign temporary guardianship so Leigha could remain, Jessalynn fired Leigha via text on May 6, 2023. Leigha was devastated, feeling she had sacrificed everything for the group, only to have it abruptly taken away. They returned to Texas on May 9.
The Sandersons later discovered Leigha’s image was still used on XOMG Pop! merchandise, alleging unauthorized use. Merchandise contracts entitled members to a small percentage of revenue, but the Sandersons claim they received no merchandising revenue or compensation for other work.
Since Leigha’s dismissal, Kinley Cunningham and Bella Llerena also left XOMG Pop!, leaving only three original members. While a new member joined in 2023, XOMG Pop! has not achieved the intended “phenomenon” status. The Australian tour and Christmas movie deal reportedly fell through.
Sources involved in Dance Pop Revolution and XOMG Pop! are unsurprised by the show’s lack of a second season and the group’s struggles. JoJo’s focus appears to have shifted to a more mature career phase, and sources suggest XOMG Pop! was Jessalynn’s attempt to recreate JoJo’s success, which ultimately failed to resonate with the wider audience.
The XOMG Pop! story serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring child stars and their parents in the digital age, highlighting the lack of protections and the ease of exploitation in the pursuit of fame. One source close to Dance Pop Revolution believes the Siwas “really messed up some people’s lives in ways I don’t think they even realize.” However, those close to the Siwas, like the on-set teacher, maintain positive intentions and a focus on helping talented children achieve their dreams.
Leigha, after a period of depression and health struggles, is beginning to find a new perspective. She appreciates the opportunities she had, including meeting celebrities and making friends. She is back in school and dancing again. However, she still harbors resentment towards the Siwas, feeling “used” and “thrown in the trash.”
Full statement from Bryan Freedman, counsel for Jessalynn Siwa, reiterates denial of allegations and accuses Anjie of abusive behavior being the reason for Leigha’s dismissal, emphasizing Jess Siwa’s protection of others involved.
