Maddie Ziegler became a household name through the reality TV show Dance Moms, captivating audiences with her exceptional dance talent and on-screen presence. For many, she will always be remembered as the young star from Abby Lee Dance Company. But what is Maddie Ziegler doing now? The talented performer has successfully transitioned from reality television and competitive dance to a thriving career in Hollywood, proving her versatility and ambition.
Ziegler’s journey after Dance Moms has been marked by significant growth and diversification. While dance remains a core part of her identity, she has expanded her horizons into acting and film production. Her recent projects highlight this evolution, showcasing her commitment to serious acting roles and a desire to be recognized for her talent beyond her early fame.
One pivotal moment in Ziegler’s acting career is her lead role in the movie Fitting In. This marked her first time topping the call sheet, a demanding experience she embraced wholeheartedly. The challenges of long, strenuous days on set were met with her characteristic competitive spirit. “If I were tired or stressed [on set], I’d say, ‘No worries, no worries,’ and our makeup artist would say, ‘Worries, worries,’” she humorously recounts, revealing her coping mechanism for stress. This role in Fitting In felt like a turning point, the start of a new chapter where she could truly explore her capabilities as an actress. She speaks fondly of her character Lindy, stating, “Lindy will live with me through my life and through the other roles that I take on,” emphasizing the personal connection she formed with the role and the project’s impact on her. Ziegler, who describes herself as a “very harsh critic,” even expressed rare pride in her performance in Fitting In, recognizing her growth and accomplishments.
Alt text: Maddie Ziegler on the set of ‘Fitting In’ movie, showcasing her dedication and focus during filming, a significant step in her acting career after Dance Moms.
Dance remains an integral part of Maddie Ziegler’s life, and she affirms it will always be. However, she is consciously navigating her career to avoid being typecast solely as a dancer. Ziegler is keen to demonstrate her acting prowess and tell compelling stories, even if they don’t explicitly involve dance. This strategic approach demonstrates her maturity and long-term vision for her career in the entertainment industry, moving beyond the dancer image established during her Dance Moms years.
With multiple feature films under her belt, including a second and a third already completed or in progress, Ziegler is firmly focused on building a lasting career in Hollywood. She is also determined to distinguish herself from the child star image that was prevalent during her time on Dance Moms. While acknowledging the complex emotions associated with her early fame and public exposure on reality television, Ziegler recognizes the undeniable role Dance Moms played in her current success. “Obviously, I have my feelings about that [show], but if I didn’t do it, I would not be where I am right now at all,” she admits. She credits Dance Moms for leading her to opportunities like being discovered by Sia, which in turn nurtured her love for acting through music videos, ultimately shaping her current path.
Alt text: Maddie Ziegler at a movie premiere event, radiating confidence and poise, reflecting her successful transition from Dance Moms to a recognized actress in Hollywood.
Ziegler is also looking towards the future with ambitious goals beyond acting. Inspired by figures like Margot Robbie and Reese Witherspoon and their production companies, she envisions establishing her own production company one day. This ambition reflects her desire for greater creative control and influence within the film industry. Furthermore, she expresses interest in diverse roles, including action-oriented characters, citing Scarlett Johansson’s role in Lucy as inspiration. Ziegler believes her dance background would be advantageous for physically demanding roles and stunt work, further showcasing her desire to continually challenge herself and expand her skill set beyond her Dance Moms persona.
Her recent project, My Old Ass, filmed immediately after Fitting In, further solidifies her rising star status. The film, acquired by Amazon MGM for a significant sum after its Sundance premiere, features Ziegler in a supporting role alongside Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella. Joining the cast shortly before filming began, Ziegler continues to seek out diverse and challenging roles that allow her to grow as an actress, a far cry from the dance competitions that defined her early career on Dance Moms.
In conclusion, Maddie Ziegler’s journey since Dance Moms is a testament to her talent, resilience, and ambition. She has successfully navigated the transition from child star to adult actor, carving out a promising career in Hollywood while staying true to her passion for dance. As she continues to take on new projects and explore different facets of the entertainment industry, Maddie Ziegler is undoubtedly a rising star to watch, proving that her talent extends far beyond the dance floor and reality TV cameras of Dance Moms.
