As a core figure in the hit reality TV series Dance Moms, Gianna Martello has been instrumental in shaping young dancers’ careers and navigating the tumultuous world of competitive dance. For years, her choreography and teaching were a central part of the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) and the drama that unfolded on screen. After several seasons, Gianna decided to step away from the show, a move that coincided with significant behind-the-scenes shifts, including Abby Lee Miller’s departure and the introduction of new choreographers.
In this exclusive interview, Gianna Martello shares her perspective on leaving Dance Moms, shedding light on the complexities of reality TV production and her journey beyond the show. She addresses the swirling rumors, her relationships with Abby and the dancers, and her aspirations for the future. For fans of Dance Moms and those curious about the reality behind the reality TV phenomenon, Gianna’s insights offer a unique and honest look at what it means to be a part of this cultural phenomenon and then to forge a path beyond it.
Why It Was Time For Gianna To Say Goodbye to Dance Moms
Gianna Martello’s departure from Dance Moms wasn’t fueled by negativity, but rather by a shift in the show’s direction. As she explains, “The show is going in a bunch of different directions that weren’t associated with Abby Lee Dance Company.” For Gianna, whose identity on the show was intrinsically linked to the ALDC and its established methods, this divergence signaled a natural point to move on. Her decision reflects a desire to remain true to her foundational role as a dance instructor and choreographer within a specific environment, one that was evolving away from its original focus.
This decision came at a time when behind-the-scenes dynamics were becoming increasingly complex. The friction between Abby Lee Miller and the production team was palpable, stemming from Abby’s accustomed autonomy in her studio environment clashing with the directives of reality TV production. Gianna observed, “Abby is so used to being her own boss at the studio that when we have a production team telling us what we have to do, she kind of pushes back on that.” This tension, while understandable given Abby’s strong personality and established career, contributed to an atmosphere where creative visions began to diverge.
Navigating Production Conflicts and Creative Differences
The crux of the production disagreements, according to Gianna, centered on creative control and the portrayal of the dancers and the ALDC. She revealed, “They were giving us ideas that we just didn’t want to do because they weren’t making us or the girls look good. This isn’t what we do and this isn’t what we stand for.” This statement underscores a fundamental conflict between the sensationalism often sought in reality TV and the artistic integrity and reputation that Gianna and Abby aimed to uphold for their dance company and students.
These “ideas” from production hinted at storylines or scenarios that Gianna felt were inauthentic and potentially damaging to the image they had cultivated. For someone deeply invested in the well-being and positive representation of her students, these creative clashes were significant. It highlighted the inherent tension in reality TV where entertainment value can sometimes overshadow the genuine experiences and values of the participants.
The Impact of Change on the Dance Moms Girls and Their Families
While the creative conflicts primarily involved Abby and Gianna with the production team, the changes inevitably rippled through the Dance Moms cast, particularly the young dancers and their mothers. Gianna clarified that the girls and moms were largely insulated from these production-level disputes. “The girls and the moms are never in situations with the producers. It’s always me and Abby and the creative team. So who knows what stories they are getting from the producers.”
This separation meant that the dancers and mothers were often navigating changes without full context, potentially relying on fragmented information or interpretations filtered through the production narrative. The introduction of guest choreographers, such as Laurieann Gibson, further complicated the dynamic. Gianna recounted the girls’ initial reaction: “I know the first week the show brought in Laurieann Gibson to guest for a few episodes; I had no idea that they were bringing her in. The girls kind of pushed back and didn’t understand why I wasn’t doing their dance.”
This instance exemplifies the delicate position of the young dancers caught in the middle of production decisions. Their established relationship with Gianna as their choreographer was disrupted, leading to confusion and resistance when faced with a new instructor brought in without prior notice. Gianna empathized with their reaction, stating, “I could see the girls didn’t like it at first, so that kind of upset me, too.” This highlights her protective stance towards her students and her concern for their experience amidst the evolving show dynamics.
Guest Choreographers and Gianna’s Shifting Role
The arrival of Laurieann Gibson and later Cheryl Burke marked a significant shift in the choreographer landscape of Dance Moms. For Gianna, Laurieann’s introduction was particularly impactful as it directly altered her role on the show. “She was given the Abby role while I was pushed to the side,” Gianna explained, describing a scenario where her usual responsibilities were reassigned to the guest choreographer.
This change was implemented without prior consultation, as Gianna noted, “When the show put me to the side when Laurieann came in, they didn’t consider telling me. That kind of hurt me.” This lack of communication and consideration underscored a growing disconnect between Gianna and the production’s vision for the show. It reinforced her feeling that her established role and contributions were being devalued in favor of a new direction that prioritized guest appearances and perhaps heightened drama.
Cheryl Burke’s arrival was a subsequent development that occurred as Gianna was already finalizing her exit. “I left the show the same day that Cheryl was announced,” she stated, clarifying that Cheryl’s presence “did not factor into my decision about quitting because I didn’t even know about it at all.” Cheryl’s focus on the Junior Elite team, who had been working separately from Abby, further indicated a structural change within the show, moving away from the core ALDC dynamic that Gianna had been a part of.
Reactions to Chloe Lukasiak’s Return and Maddie Ziegler’s Reflections
Even after departing Dance Moms, Gianna remained connected to the unfolding storylines and cast developments, often learning about them through social media, much like the public. Chloe Lukasiak’s return to the show was one such instance. “I found out again on social media. Abby and I were not there for her return,” Gianna shared. Despite not being directly involved in Chloe’s comeback, Gianna viewed it positively, acknowledging the buzz it generated: “The internet blew up. I think it’s awesome for the show.” She also expressed goodwill towards Chloe and her mother, noting, “I did get to see her and say hello to them and it was nice.”
Maddie Ziegler, another prominent Dance Moms alumna, also made headlines with her reflections on her time on the show, particularly with the release of her book. When asked about Maddie’s book and her comments, Gianna admitted with a laugh, “I haven’t read the book! … but I haven’t read it; don’t tell her!” Despite not having read Maddie’s account, Gianna offered high praise for Maddie’s talent and maturity, stating, “I always thought Maddie was above and beyond. I always thought her brain was the same age as my brain when it comes to dancing. She’s always been so mature.” This comment speaks to the close bond and respect Gianna held for her students, even as they navigated the pressures of Dance Moms and their burgeoning careers.
Moving On and Looking Ahead: Life After Dance Moms
Leaving Dance Moms marked a significant transition for Gianna, both professionally and personally. She described it as feeling like “a break-up” in some ways, acknowledging the platform the show had provided: “It must feel like a break-up since Dance Moms gave you a platform to showcase your work.” However, she emphasized that her departure was amicable and pragmatic: “It wasn’t bad when I left — there was no screaming or crying. I just got to the point that this was it.”
With her contract situation being different from the main cast (“No, I have the same contract as the crew would have. So I don’t have a contract like the kids do. I am not bound to anything.”), Gianna felt liberated to pursue new opportunities. She had already been deferring various projects due to her commitment to the show. Now, based in Los Angeles, she expressed eagerness to explore a wider range of ventures. “I can’t wait to get into anything and everything once I am in LA permanently,” she enthused.
Her aspirations include teaching at major dance conventions, expanding into film and music videos, and generally embracing the diverse creative landscape of Los Angeles. “I want to cross it off my bucket list and teach at a big convention. I want to dabble with that. Then I want to get into everything from film to music videos.” This ambition reflects a desire to leverage her Dance Moms experience to broaden her reach and impact within the dance and entertainment industries.
Lessons Learned from the Dance Moms Experience
Reflecting on her time on Dance Moms, Gianna distilled a key lesson that resonated with her experience in the reality TV environment. “Stay true to yourself because reality TV can sway you in so many different directions and you can end up looking back on it and thinking who was that person? What was I saying?” This insight speaks to the potential for reality TV to distort personalities and narratives in pursuit of entertainment.
For Gianna, maintaining authenticity was a conscious choice and a survival strategy. “It might look like I’m quiet or I don’t speak up on the show, but it was just because I was doing my job. I was put on the show as a dance instructor and choreographer. I was not put on the show to cause drama.” By prioritizing her professional role and staying grounded in her identity as an educator and choreographer, Gianna believes she navigated the Dance Moms whirlwind successfully. “I’m glad I stuck with that. I think I survived. I think I came out OK.” Her journey serves as a testament to the importance of self-awareness and professional integrity, especially when navigating the often-unpredictable terrain of reality television and the intense spotlight of Dance Moms.
