Dance Moms, the reality TV sensation that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, not only delivered drama and dance battles but also launched the careers of numerous young talents. Stars like Maddie Ziegler, JoJo Siwa, and Chloé Lukasiak started their journey at Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh under the demanding eye of Abby Lee Miller and the watchful gaze of their mothers. The show, a Kids’ Choice Award winner, became known for Miller’s rigorous coaching methods and the infamous “pyramid” ranking system. Despite the pressures of reality TV and competitive dance, many cast members have remained in the spotlight. With a recent reunion special in May 2024 and a reboot series, Dance Moms: A New Era, premiering on Hulu in August 2024, fans are eager to know: Where are the Dance Moms cast members today? Let’s dive into what the original cast is up to now.
Abby Lee Miller: Life After the Pyramid
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Abby Lee Miller, the iconic dance coach from Dance Moms, then and now, showcasing her journey from studio owner to reality TV star and her resilience through health challenges.
Abby Lee Miller, the formidable dance instructor and owner of Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC), honed her skills from her mother, Maryen Lorrain Miller. Dance Moms showcased Miller’s intense coaching style, marked by sharp critiques and memorable clashes with the mothers. Her pyramid ranking system became a signature element of the show, symbolizing the high-stakes environment she cultivated. Beyond dance instruction, Miller’s interactions with the moms often became central to the show’s drama, featuring heated exchanges and controversial moments.
However, Miller’s journey hasn’t been without significant challenges. In 2015, she faced federal indictment for bankruptcy fraud, leading to a prison sentence in 2017. Released to a halfway house after eight months, Miller then confronted serious health issues, including Burkitt lymphoma, which required emergency spinal surgery and extensive treatment. Despite these hardships, Miller declared herself cancer-free in 2019 and demonstrated remarkable resilience by taking her first steps after being wheelchair-bound since 2018.
In 2023, Miller sold the Dance Moms studio for $300,000, marking a significant change. While she wasn’t invited to the Dance Moms reunion special in May 2024, Miller maintains connections with some former students, including JoJo Siwa, who speaks with her weekly. Reflecting on her Dance Moms era, Miller has acknowledged being overly “harsh” on her students, especially those she felt lacked talent, indicating a degree of introspection about her past methods. Although she declined a cameo in the Dance Moms reboot, Dance Moms: A New Era, Miller remains a significant figure in the dance world and the lives of her former students.
Maddie Ziegler: From ALDC to Global Stardom
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Maddie Ziegler, a Dance Moms original cast member, then and now, illustrating her transition from a young dancer on reality TV to a successful actress and model in Hollywood.
Maddie Ziegler, arguably the most famous alumna of Dance Moms, joined the show at just 7 years old and quickly became known for her exceptional lyrical dance skills and her position as Abby Lee Miller’s favored dancer. This favoritism often sparked tension among the Dance Moms mothers, adding to the show’s dramatic dynamics.
Maddie’s career skyrocketed when she starred in Sia’s “Chandelier” music video in 2014. This video, which has now surpassed 2 billion views, propelled her into mainstream fame. She continued collaborating with Sia, appearing in videos for “Elastic Heart,” “Cheap Thrills,” and “Big Girls Cry,” and performing alongside Sia at major events.
Leaving Dance Moms in 2016, Maddie seamlessly transitioned into acting, with roles in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Beyond acting, she became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, and has graced campaigns for luxury brands such as Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi, establishing herself as a versatile talent in the entertainment and fashion industries.
Despite her success, Maddie has been vocal about the pressures of Dance Moms, describing it as a “toxic environment.” She has not spoken to Abby Lee Miller since leaving the show and feels at peace with that distance. Maddie emphasizes the importance of speaking up for oneself and healing from childhood experiences in recent interviews, highlighting her growth and resilience since her Dance Moms days.
Kenzie Ziegler: Balancing Music, Acting, and Reality TV
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Mackenzie Ziegler, Dance Moms’ youngest dancer, then and now, showcasing her evolution into a multifaceted entertainer with careers in music, acting, and reality television.
Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, was the youngest dancer on Dance Moms, charming audiences from season 1 to 6. While comparisons to her older sister were frequent on the show, Kenzie has carved out her own successful path in entertainment.
Kenzie has ventured into acting, starring in the web series Total Eclipse and the movie Let Us In. She has also released two music albums and popular singles like “paper” and “100 degrees,” showcasing her talent beyond dance. In 2022, Kenzie and Maddie launched a podcast, Take 20 with Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their lives and sisterly bond.
Continuing in reality TV, Kenzie placed third on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer, proving her versatility as a performer. Currently, she is dating TikToker Tacoda Dubbs. Like Maddie, Kenzie opted out of the Dance Moms reunion, expressing a desire to avoid revisiting that period of her life, indicating a forward-looking approach to her career and personal growth.
Melissa Gisoni: Life as a Momager and Podcaster
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Melissa Gisoni, the mother of Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her transition from reality TV mom to podcast host and social media personality.
Melissa Gisoni, mother to Maddie and Kenzie, was a prominent figure on Dance Moms, often seen advocating fiercely for her daughters and navigating the intense dynamics of the show. Her interactions with Abby Lee Miller and the other mothers were a consistent source of drama and entertainment.
After leaving Dance Moms with her daughters after season 6, Melissa has maintained a strong online presence with a large following on Instagram and YouTube. She has spoken about the less stressful and “fuller” life she enjoys post-Dance Moms.
Currently, Melissa co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with fellow original Dance Moms mothers Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes. This podcast allows them to reflect on their experiences on the show and share their lives beyond reality TV, connecting with fans in a new format.
JoJo Siwa: Bows, Broadway, and Breaking New Ground
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Jojo Siwa, a breakout star from Dance Moms, then and now, illustrating her journey from a young dancer with signature bows to a global icon and multifaceted entertainer.
JoJo Siwa, known for her vibrant personality and oversized hair bows, became a Dance Moms sensation in seasons 5 and 6. Her mother, Jessalynn Siwa, often crafted JoJo’s signature bows, which became a recognizable part of JoJo’s brand.
Since leaving Dance Moms to pursue a deal with Nickelodeon, JoJo’s career has exploded. Her debut single, “Boomerang,” became a massive hit, and her JoJo’s Bows merchandise line was hugely successful. Nickelodeon further propelled her career with TV appearances, movies like Blurt!, and hosting roles. TIME magazine recognized her influence by naming her one of the 100 Most Influential People of 2020.
JoJo made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity to be paired with a female professional dancer, and she served as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance. In early 2024, JoJo announced a deliberate shift towards a more mature, adult image, marked by her single “Karma” and a new aesthetic direction. This transition signals JoJo’s continued evolution as an artist and public figure, embracing change while staying true to her dynamic spirit.
Jessalynn Siwa: Momager and Reality TV Producer
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Jess Siwa, JoJo Siwa’s mother from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her role as a supportive “momager” and her continued collaborations with JoJo in the entertainment industry.
Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was a memorable personality on Dance Moms, known for her strong opinions and unwavering support for JoJo. Her dance studio background and “momager” approach were central to her storyline on the show.
Post-Dance Moms, Jessalynn has continued to collaborate closely with JoJo. They created the Peacock competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, which launched the girl group XOMG POP!. Jessalynn remains JoJo’s biggest supporter, particularly during high-profile events like Dancing with the Stars and Special Forces. Their ongoing partnership showcases a strong mother-daughter professional relationship in the entertainment industry.
Chloé Lukasiak: YouTube Star and Advocate
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Chloe Lukasiak, a fan-favorite dancer from Dance Moms, then and now, demonstrating her growth into a successful YouTuber, actress, and author.
Chloé Lukasiak was a beloved Dance Moms cast member from seasons 1 through 4, known for her grace and rivalry with Maddie Ziegler, often fueled by Abby Lee Miller. Her departure in season 4 was emotional for fans, though she briefly returned in season 7.
Since leaving ALDC, Chloé has thrived as a YouTube personality with over 2 million subscribers, sharing vlogs and insights into her life. She has also pursued acting roles in films like Loophole and The Message and authored a memoir, Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World, reflecting on her experiences and journey.
After participating in Dance Moms: The Reunion, Chloé openly discussed the lasting impact of Miller’s treatment and the competitive environment, highlighting her ongoing journey of healing and self-acceptance.
Christi Lukasiak: Entrepreneur and Mental Health Advocate
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Christi Lukasiak, Chloe Lukasiak’s mother from Dance Moms, then and now, showcasing her transition into an entrepreneur, podcast host, and advocate for youth mental health.
Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mom, was a central figure on Dance Moms, renowned for her outspoken nature and frequent clashes with Abby Lee Miller. Her passionate defenses of Chloé and her dramatic interactions with other moms were hallmarks of the show.
Post-Dance Moms, Christi has become a successful entrepreneur, running Adulting101, a life skills program for Gen Z women. She also manages property rentals and co-hosts the Dance Moms rewatch podcast Back to the Barre with Kelly Hyland.
Christi is actively involved with YourMomCares, a nonprofit organization supporting youth mental healthcare, reflecting her commitment to important causes beyond the entertainment world.
Nia Sioux: Actress, Singer, and UCLA Student
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Nia Sioux, the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, then and now, illustrating her evolution into an actress, singer, and college student at UCLA.
Nia Sioux holds the distinction of being the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, appearing in the first seven seasons. Her journey on the show, including navigating racial stereotypes and personal growth, resonated with many viewers.
After Dance Moms, Nia expanded her career into acting, with roles in off-Broadway productions, films, and a recurring role on The Bold and the Beautiful. She has also released original music and 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. While not part of the reunion special, Nia acknowledges the significant impact of Dance Moms on her life, both positive and negative, shaping her into the person she is today.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier: Podcast Host and Advocate for Representation
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia Sioux’s mother from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her role as a podcast host, author, and advocate for diversity and representation.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia’s mother, was known for her composed demeanor on Dance Moms, often providing thoughtful commentary amidst the drama. Her advocacy for Nia, particularly regarding racial representation and fair treatment, was a key aspect of her time on the show.
Since Dance Moms, Holly co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So and authored Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly. She has spoken about the challenges and microaggressions faced by Nia on Dance Moms, emphasizing the importance of representation and sensitivity in media.
Brooke Hyland: Engaged and Social Media Influencer
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Brooke Hyland, the oldest dancer from Dance Moms, then and now, showcasing her transition to a social media influencer and her recent engagement.
Brooke Hyland, the eldest dancer on the original Dance Moms team, appeared in seasons 1 through 4 with her sister Paige. Her storylines often revolved around her burnout from dance and desire for a normal teenage life.
Brooke released a self-titled album in 2013 and graduated from Ohio University with a business degree in 2019. Currently, she is a social media influencer with a substantial Instagram following. In May 2024, Brooke got engaged to Brian Thalman, marking a new chapter in her personal life.
Paige Hyland: Business Graduate and Long-Term Relationship
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Paige Hyland, a dancer from Dance Moms known for her humor, then and now, illustrating her life post-reality TV as a business graduate with a strong social media presence.
Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, was on Dance Moms from seasons 1 to 4, known for her witty remarks and sometimes uneasy relationship with Abby Lee Miller. Her lawsuit against Miller in 2014 highlighted the intense environment of the show.
After Dance Moms, Paige graduated from West Virginia University with a business administration degree in 2023. Like her sister, she is active on social media and has been in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift, a former college football player.
Kelly Hyland: Podcast Host and Family Advocate
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Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige Hyland from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her journey from reality TV drama to podcasting and supporting her daughters.
Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, had a long history with Abby Lee Miller, having been her student as a child. Her confrontations with Miller on Dance Moms, culminating in a physical altercation, were highly publicized and led to legal actions.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Kelly co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak and Because Mom Said So with Melissa, Holly, and Jill. The Hyland sisters have expressed gratitude for their mother’s fierce protection during their time on Dance Moms, acknowledging her role in supporting their well-being.
Kendall Vertes: National Champion and College Dancer
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Kendall Vertes, who joined Dance Moms in season 2, then and now, showcasing her continued dance success as a national champion in college and her personal life.
Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained until season 7, becoming known for her contemporary dance skills and aspirations in music. Her journey on the show included navigating team dynamics and Abby Lee Miller’s critiques.
Beyond Dance Moms, Kendall pursued music, releasing her debut single in 2015. She is currently part of the dance team at James Madison University, where she won a national championship in 2024, celebrating the victory with a “top of the pyramid” reference to Dance Moms. Kendall is also in a relationship with Clemson baseball player Andrew Ciufo.
Jill Vertes: Podcast Host and Reflecting on the Past
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Jill Vertes, Kendall Vertes’s mother from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her role as a podcast host and her reflections on her Dance Moms experience.
Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mom, joined Dance Moms in season 2 and was known for her assertive personality and unwavering support for Kendall, often leading to clashes with Abby Lee Miller and other moms. Her pursuit of fame and opportunities for Kendall was a recurring theme.
Currently, Jill co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast. Reflecting on the Dance Moms reunion, Jill acknowledged that revisiting the show’s intense moments brought back difficult emotions, highlighting the lasting impact of the Dance Moms experience on both her and Kendall.
Kalani Hilliker: Engaged and Entrepreneur
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Kalani Hilliker, who joined Dance Moms in season 4, then and now, showcasing her journey as a dance teacher, entrepreneur, and her recent engagement.
Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4, having previously competed on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition. Her exceptional dance talent and composed demeanor made her a standout cast member until season 7.
Post-Dance Moms, Kalani has continued dancing, acting, and teaching dance. She launched her skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her personal journey with mental health. In August 2024, Kalani announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman, celebrating a happy personal milestone.
Kira Girard: Life Outside the Spotlight
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Kira Girard, Kalani Hilliker’s mother from Dance Moms, then and now, highlighting her life away from the reality TV spotlight and her continued support for Kalani.
Kira Girard, Kalani’s mother, was a regular on Dance Moms from season 4 onwards, known for her direct personality and occasional conflicts with other moms. Her relationship with Kalani and her approach to the competitive dance world were key aspects of her storyline.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Kira has largely remained out of the public eye, focusing on family life and sharing updates on Instagram. While less publicly active than some other Dance Moms alumni, she remains supportive of Kalani’s endeavors.
Vivi-Anne Stein: College Cheerleader
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Vivi-Anne Stein, the daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein from Dance Moms, then and now, showcasing her transition from a reluctant dancer to a college cheerleader.
Vivi-Anne Stein, daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, was a unique presence on early seasons of Dance Moms due to her candid and often humorous disinterest in dance, despite her mother’s dance studio ownership and competitive nature.
Initially known for her deadpan remarks about dancing, Vivi-Anne eventually embraced the art form. After graduating high school, she became a cheerleader at Cleveland State University, showcasing a different form of performance and athleticism.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein: Still at Candy Apples Dance Center
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, owner of Candy Apples Dance Center and Dance Moms rival, then and now, highlighting her continued dedication to her dance studio and her relationship with Vivi-Anne.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, owner of Candy Apple’s Dance Center, served as Abby Lee Miller’s rival studio owner on Dance Moms, creating dramatic tension and competitive storylines. Her interactions with Abby and the ALDC moms were often confrontational and entertaining.
Cathy continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center, remaining active in the dance community. She frequently shares updates about her studio and her life with her daughter Vivi-Anne on social media.
Gianna “Gia” Martello: Choreographer and Still in Dance
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Gianna “Gia” Martello, the choreographer from Dance Moms, then and now, illustrating her continued career in dance as a teacher and choreographer.
Gianna “Gia” Martello was Abby Lee Miller’s long-time choreographer on Dance Moms, playing a crucial role in training the dancers and creating routines. Her expertise and dedication were evident throughout all eight seasons.
After Dance Moms, Gia has continued her career as a dance teacher and choreographer, judging competitions and working with MSA Talent Agency. She was also involved in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video, showcasing her ongoing presence in the dance and entertainment world.
The Dance Moms cast members have each navigated unique paths since their time on the show, from continued careers in dance and entertainment to entrepreneurial ventures and personal milestones. Their stories reflect the diverse experiences and lasting impacts of being part of the Dance Moms phenomenon.
