Dance Moms, the reality TV sensation that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, wasn’t just a show; it was a launchpad. This intense series spotlighted the young dancers of Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) in Pittsburgh, under the demanding eye of owner Abby Lee Miller, alongside their equally invested mothers. The show, a Kids’ Choice Award winner, became known for Miller’s rigorous coaching and the infamous “pyramid” ranking system, which, while controversial, undeniably propelled many of its stars into the limelight. From Maddie Ziegler to JoJo Siwa and Chloé Lukasiak, Dance Moms alumni have made significant strides in their careers and personal lives.
Despite the pressure-cooker environment, some cast members have maintained relationships with Miller. JoJo Siwa, for instance, acknowledged Miller’s impact in a 2022 interview with PEOPLE, stating, “I do respect her choreography and I do [respect what she’s done for the world]. Whether the dance community wants to admit it or not, she changed the dance world for the better.” However, time has moved on, and the stars of Dance Moms have embarked on diverse paths.
More than a decade after the first season premiered, the cast (minus Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, and Abby Lee Miller) reunited for a special in May 2024, highlighting the enduring interest in where life has taken these dancers. A reboot, Dance Moms: A New Era, premiered on Hulu in August 2024, featuring a new generation of dancers under coach Gloria “Glo” Hampton. This reboot and the reunion special have reignited fan curiosity about the original cast. So, what are the Dance Moms cast members up to now? Let’s delve into the current lives of these celebrated dancers and personalities.
Abby Lee Miller
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Abby Lee Miller, the central figure of Dance Moms, remains a prominent personality in the dance world. Growing up immersed in dance thanks to her mother’s studio, Miller established Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) with her parents’ support. Dance Moms amplified her tough coaching style and sharp critiques, often directed at both the young dancers and their mothers, creating iconic (and sometimes infamous) TV moments.
Beyond the show’s drama, Miller faced serious legal challenges, including bankruptcy fraud charges in 2015. She served time in federal prison and later experienced significant health issues, including Burkitt lymphoma, leading to spinal surgery and the use of a wheelchair. Despite these hardships, Miller’s resilience is evident. She sold the original Dance Moms studio in 2023 but emphasized that she retained her brand and life’s work.
Although not invited to the Dance Moms reunion special due to requests from some cast members, Miller still has connections with some of her former students, including JoJo Siwa. In a 2024 interview, Miller reflected on her Dance Moms era, admitting to being “harsh” and expressing a willingness to take back some of her on-screen comments. While she declined a cameo in the Dance Moms: A New Era reboot, she sent a congratulatory message to the new coach, Glo Hampton. Today, Abby Lee Miller continues to be involved in dance, offering masterclasses and maintaining a presence in the dance community, demonstrating her enduring influence despite the controversies and challenges of her past.
Maddie Ziegler
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Maddie Ziegler, arguably the most recognized face from Dance Moms, has successfully transitioned from dance prodigy to multifaceted entertainer. Joining Dance Moms at just 7 years old, Maddie quickly became known for her exceptional talent and was often highlighted as Abby Lee Miller’s favorite, which sometimes stirred up jealousy among the other dancers and mothers.
Maddie’s career skyrocketed when she starred in Sia’s “Chandelier” music video in 2014. This iconic video, with over 2 billion views, launched Maddie into mainstream fame. She continued collaborating with Sia in numerous music videos and live performances, cementing her status as a dance and visual performance icon.
Since leaving Dance Moms in 2016, Maddie has focused on acting, with roles in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Beyond film, she became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, and has modeled for high-profile brands like Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi.
Maddie has been candid about the pressures and “toxic environment” of Dance Moms. She expressed relief and peace after distancing herself from Abby Lee Miller and the show. In a 2024 interview with Teen Vogue, Maddie reflected on healing from her childhood experiences and embracing her voice. Currently, Maddie Ziegler continues to thrive as an actress and influencer, demonstrating her ability to evolve beyond her reality TV beginnings and establish herself as a successful and independent artist.
Kenzie Ziegler
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Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, also gained fame on Dance Moms as one of the youngest and most energetic dancers. Often seen as the bubbly and versatile performer, Kenzie danced on Dance Moms from season 1 to season 6.
While comparisons to her older sister were frequent on the show, Kenzie has carved out her own successful path in entertainment. She and Maddie maintain a close relationship, even co-hosting a podcast, Take 20 with Maddie & Kenzie Ziegler, in 2022, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their lives.
Like Maddie, Kenzie has ventured into acting, starring in the web series Total Eclipse and the film Let Us In. However, Kenzie has particularly excelled in music, releasing two albums and popular singles like “paper” and “100 degrees.” Her music career showcases her energetic personality and pop-infused style.
Kenzie has also continued in reality TV, appearing on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer. As of her latest updates, she is dating TikToker Tacoda Dubbs, with their relationship becoming public in 2020. Kenzie opted out of the Dance Moms reunion, explaining it was to avoid revisiting a past era, emphasizing her focus on current and future endeavors. Kenzie Ziegler continues to build her career as a singer, actress, and influencer, establishing herself as a versatile entertainer separate from the Dance Moms legacy.
Melissa Gisoni
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Melissa Gisoni, the mother of Maddie and Kenzie, was a central figure in Dance Moms, often portrayed as fiercely supportive of her daughters and occasionally stirring drama with other moms. Her pride in Maddie’s talents and her interactions with Abby Lee Miller were recurring storylines.
Melissa and her daughters left Dance Moms after season 6, citing the show’s constraints on Maddie’s career and the overall stress it placed on the family. Since leaving, Melissa has maintained a strong social media presence, with millions of followers on Instagram and a YouTube channel where she shares insights into her life post-Dance Moms.
In a 2022 YouTube video, Melissa described her life after the show as “less stressful” and “much fuller.” She has also joined other original Dance Moms mothers—Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes—in a podcast called Because Mom Said So. This podcast allows the moms to reflect on their Dance Moms experiences and discuss current events and family life. Melissa Gisoni now enjoys a life away from the reality TV spotlight, focusing on her family, online presence, and podcasting, while still supporting her daughters’ thriving careers.
JoJo Siwa
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JoJo Siwa, known for her vibrant personality and signature hair bows, is one of the most commercially successful stars to emerge from Dance Moms. Despite only being a main cast member in seasons 5 and 6, JoJo’s impact was undeniable. Her mother, Jessalynn Siwa, was also a prominent figure, often creating JoJo’s iconic bows.
JoJo and Jess left Dance Moms to pursue a deal with Nickelodeon, a move that proved incredibly fruitful. JoJo’s career took off with her single “Boomerang” in 2016 and the launch of JoJo’s Bows, which became a massive retail success. Her partnership with Nickelodeon led to TV appearances, movies like Blurt! and The J Team, and hosting gigs.
In 2020, TIME magazine recognized JoJo as one of the 100 Most Influential People, with Kim Kardashian praising her as a “ray of sunshine.” JoJo publicly came out as LGBTQ+ in 2021, further solidifying her role as a role model for young audiences. She made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity to dance with a female professional partner and later became a judge on So You Think You Can Dance.
Recently, JoJo has been undergoing a career evolution, transitioning to a more mature image and music style with her single “Karma” in 2024. This shift marks her move into adulthood and a more nuanced artistic expression. JoJo Siwa continues to be a force in entertainment, evolving her brand while remaining a significant influence on social media and popular culture.
Jessalynn Siwa
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Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was a memorable presence on Dance Moms for her strong opinions and unwavering support of JoJo. As a dance studio owner herself, Jessalynn was no stranger to the competitive dance world.
Since Dance Moms, Jessalynn has continued to collaborate with JoJo on various projects. They created the Peacock competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution, which formed the girl group XOMG POP!. Jessalynn has remained a constant supporter of JoJo’s career, including her appearances on Dancing with the Stars and Special Forces.
Jessalynn’s dynamic with JoJo extends beyond mother-daughter; they are business partners and close collaborators. She often speaks about her pride in JoJo’s accomplishments and their strong bond. Currently, Jessalynn continues to manage aspects of JoJo’s career and is involved in XOMG POP!’s development, remaining a driving force behind JoJo’s continued success and brand evolution.
Chloé Lukasiak
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Chloé Lukasiak was a fan favorite on Dance Moms from seasons 1 through 4, known for her grace and rivalry with Maddie Ziegler, often fueled by Abby Lee Miller’s comparisons. Chloé left Dance Moms due to conflicts between her mother and Miller, returning briefly in season 7.
Since leaving the show, Chloé has focused on various creative pursuits. She has a significant presence on YouTube, with over 2 million subscribers, where she discusses her life, experiences on Dance Moms, and offers lifestyle content. Chloé has also ventured into acting, with 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 Dance Moms journey and self-acceptance.
Participating in Dance Moms: The Reunion was a significant step for Chloé, where she openly discussed the lasting impact of Miller’s harsh treatment and the competitive environment. She emphasized the challenges of growing up under such pressure and the ongoing process of healing. While she was in a relationship with Brooklinn Khoury from 2020 to 2023, Chloe’s current relationship status is not publicly known. Chloé Lukasiak continues to engage with her audience through social media and various creative projects, advocating for mental health and sharing her journey of personal growth beyond the dance studio.
Christi Lukasiak
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Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was renowned on Dance Moms for her outspoken nature and frequent clashes with Abby Lee Miller, becoming a central figure in the show’s drama. Her passionate defense of Chloé and her sharp wit made her a memorable personality.
Post-Dance Moms, Christi has embraced entrepreneurship and advocacy. She has a substantial following on Instagram and runs a business called Adulting101, aimed at providing life skills to Gen Z women. Her business ventures also include property rentals and podcasts, including Back to the Barre, a Dance Moms rewatch podcast co-hosted with Kelly Hyland.
Christi is also actively involved with YourMomCares, a nonprofit organization supporting youth mental healthcare. This aligns with her and Chloé’s advocacy for mental health awareness, often drawing from their experiences on Dance Moms. Christi Lukasiak has successfully transitioned from reality TV mom to businesswoman and advocate, leveraging her platform to empower young women and support mental health initiatives.
Nia Sioux
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Nia Sioux was the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, appearing in the first seven seasons. Known for her resilience and growth throughout the series, Nia often faced challenges related to race and opportunities within the dance company, issues often addressed by her mother, Holly.
After Dance Moms, Nia diversified her career into acting, music, and digital content creation. She made her off-Broadway debut in Trip of Love, appeared in the film I Am Mortal, and had a role on The Bold and the Beautiful. Musically, she has released songs like “Star in Your Own Life” and “Slay.” Nia also hosted her Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia, and has a significant Instagram following.
Currently, Nia is a student at UCLA, studying American literature and culture, with aspirations to become an author. She balances her academic pursuits with her entertainment career, demonstrating a commitment to both education and creative expression. Nia celebrated her second anniversary with her boyfriend, Gabriel Hawkins, in February 2024. While she chose not to participate in the Dance Moms reunion, Nia Sioux continues to evolve as a performer and scholar, reflecting on her Dance Moms experience as a formative part of her journey.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia Sioux’s mother, was known on Dance Moms for her calm and composed demeanor, often providing a counterpoint to the more volatile personalities. An Ivy League graduate, Holly was a strong advocate for Nia, particularly regarding issues of racial representation and fair treatment on the show.
Since Dance Moms, Holly has continued to emphasize education and intellectual pursuits. She co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with Melissa, Kelly, and Jill, providing insightful commentary and a balanced perspective. In 2014, she published Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly, reflecting her focus on personal growth and mindfulness.
In a 2021 interview with The Washington Post, Holly discussed the complexities of being a Black mother on reality TV and the microaggressions and stereotypes encountered on Dance Moms. Currently, Holly Hatcher-Frazier leverages her experiences and educational background to offer thoughtful commentary and engage in discussions about motherhood, race, and personal development, maintaining a voice of reason and intellect within the Dance Moms alumni community.
Brooke Hyland
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Brooke Hyland, the oldest dancer on the original Dance Moms team, was on the show from seasons 1 to 4 with her sister Paige. Brooke was known for her acrobatic skills and her desire for a more normal teenage life outside of dance.
After leaving Dance Moms, Brooke pursued higher education, graduating from Ohio University with a degree in marketing, management information systems, and business analytics in 2019. She also briefly ventured into music during her time on the show, releasing a self-titled album in 2013.
Today, Brooke is a social media influencer with a significant Instagram following. In May 2024, Brooke got engaged to her longtime boyfriend, Brian Thalman, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Brooke Hyland has successfully transitioned from child reality star to social media personality and businesswoman, focusing on her personal life and online presence away from the competitive dance world.
Paige Hyland
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Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, danced on Dance Moms from seasons 1 to 4. Known for her bubbly personality, Paige, along with her sister Brooke and mother Kelly, left the show amidst escalating tensions with Abby Lee Miller.
In 2014, Paige and her mother Kelly sued Miller for assault and emotional distress, citing abusive behavior on the show. Though the lawsuit was dismissed in 2015, it highlighted the intense environment of Dance Moms.
Post-Dance Moms, Paige focused on her education, graduating from West Virginia University in 2023 with a degree in business administration. Like her sister, she maintains an active social media presence on Instagram and has been in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift. Paige Hyland has prioritized her education and personal life after her reality TV experience, evolving into a young adult focused on her future beyond dance and television.
Kelly Hyland
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Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, had a history with Abby Lee Miller dating back to her own childhood dance training under Miller. On Dance Moms, Kelly was known for her fiery confrontations with Miller and her protective nature towards her daughters.
Kelly left Dance Moms with Brooke and Paige, and also sued Miller following a physical altercation. She faced assault charges related to the same incident, but both cases were eventually dismissed. The Hyland sisters have since expressed gratitude to their mother for removing them from the show’s stressful environment.
Currently, Kelly co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak and participates in the Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa, Holly, and Jill. These platforms allow her to reflect on her Dance Moms experiences and engage with fans. Kelly Hyland has transitioned from reality TV drama to podcasting and commentary, maintaining connections with the Dance Moms community while sharing her perspectives on motherhood and life after the show.
Kendall Vertes
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Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained until season 7, becoming a consistent member of the ALDC team. Known for her versatility and determination, Kendall also briefly danced with rival Candy Apples.
During Dance Moms, Kendall launched a singing career, releasing her first single “Wear ‘Em Out” in 2015. After the show, she enrolled at James Madison University, joining their dance team. In 2024, Kendall and her team won a national championship, a significant achievement she proudly celebrated, referencing Abby Lee Miller’s pyramid ranking system in her social media posts.
Kendall has been dating Clemson baseball player Andrew Ciufo since 2022. Like many of her fellow Dance Moms alumni, Kendall has spoken about the negative aspects of her experience on the show but maintains close relationships with the cast. Kendall Vertes continues to pursue dance and her education, achieving success in collegiate dance while reflecting on her reality TV past with a sense of closure and continued camaraderie with her Dance Moms peers.
Jill Vertes
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Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, was known on Dance Moms for her assertive personality and strong advocacy for Kendall, often leading to conflicts with Abby Lee Miller and the other mothers. Her determination to see Kendall succeed was a defining aspect of her time on the show.
Since Dance Moms, Jill has joined the Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa, Holly, and Kelly, providing her perspective on their shared experiences. Participating in the Dance Moms reunion brought back intense emotions for Jill, as she recounted the stress and emotional toll of the show, particularly concerning Abby Lee Miller’s interactions with Kendall.
Jill Vertes remains connected to the Dance Moms community through her podcast and appearances, offering insights into the lasting impact of the show and her life after reality TV, while also reflecting on the challenges and bonds formed during that period.
Kalani Hilliker
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Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4 and stayed until season 7, known for her exceptional technique and versatility. Prior to Dance Moms, she competed on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition.
After Dance Moms, Kalani continued dancing and acting, appearing in shows like Shake It Up and America’s Got Talent. She also became a dance teacher, aiming to provide a more positive training environment for her students. Kalani launched her skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her own mental health journey post-Dance Moms.
In August 2024, Kalani announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman, celebrating a significant personal milestone. Despite acknowledging the “trauma” from Dance Moms, Kalani has expressed gratitude for Abby Lee Miller’s influence on her career. Kalani Hilliker balances her entrepreneurial ventures with her continued involvement in dance and entertainment, while embarking on her engagement and future personal endeavors.
Kira Girard
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Kira Girard, Kalani’s mother, was a regular on Dance Moms from season 4 onwards, known for her strong personality and sometimes confrontational interactions with the other moms.
Following her and Kalani’s departure from Dance Moms, Kira has largely remained out of the public spotlight, though she shares family updates on Instagram. While not actively participating in Dance Moms reunions or podcasts, Kira was seen in photos from the reunion set, indicating continued connections with the cast.
Kira Girard now enjoys a more private life, focusing on her family and supporting Kalani’s career and personal milestones away from the reality TV cameras.
Vivi-Anne Stein
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Vivi-Anne Stein, daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, appeared in season 1 of Dance Moms and sporadically thereafter. Famous for her deadpan humor and initial disinterest in dance, Vivi-Anne became a fan favorite for her candid reactions to the show’s drama.
Despite her early reluctance, Vivi-Anne embraced dance and continued performing after Dance Moms. She was a cheerleader in high school and joined the cheer team at Cleveland State University after graduating in 2023.
Vivi-Anne Stein has transitioned from reluctant reality TV child to enthusiastic cheerleader and student, pursuing athletics and academics while maintaining a low-profile public presence, a notable shift from her early days on Dance Moms.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother, owned the rival Candy Apple’s Dance Center and appeared on Dance Moms from season 1, often as Abby Lee Miller’s antagonist. Her competitive spirit and studio rivalry fueled much of the show’s early drama.
Cathy continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center in Ohio. While she reduced her appearances on later seasons of Dance Moms, Cathy remains active in the dance world, focusing on her studio and spending time with her daughter, Vivi-Anne.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein has maintained her career as a dance studio owner and educator, continuing her passion for dance and youth development, while stepping back from the reality TV spotlight and the intense rivalry portrayed on Dance Moms.
Gianna “Gia” Martello
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Gianna “Gia” Martello was Abby Lee Miller’s choreographer throughout all eight seasons of Dance Moms. Working at ALDC for over 15 years, Gia was instrumental in training the dancers and choreographing the routines that became famous on the show.
After Dance Moms, Gianna continues to work as a dance teacher and judge, maintaining her career in the professional dance world. She got engaged to Steve Lynch in 2022 and was involved in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video in 2024, showcasing her ongoing presence in the dance and entertainment industry.
Gianna Martello remains dedicated to dance, mentoring new generations of dancers and contributing to choreography and performance projects, solidifying her career behind the scenes and continuing her influence in the dance community beyond Dance Moms.
Conclusion
The Dance Moms cast members have undeniably come a long way since their time at Abby Lee Dance Company. While the show was characterized by intense competition and drama, it served as a significant platform for these young talents. Today, they are pursuing diverse paths – from acting and music to business and education – each carving out their own identity beyond the show that brought them into the public eye. The Dance Moms legacy endures, not just in reruns and reunions, but in the ongoing successes and transformations of its memorable cast. Their journeys reflect resilience, adaptation, and the enduring impact of a unique chapter in reality television history.
