Dance Moms, the reality TV sensation that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, wasn’t just a show; it was a launchpad. This series propelled young dancers from the Abby Lee Dance Company in Pittsburgh into the spotlight, and the world watched as these dance moms girls now grew up under immense pressure, guided by the infamous Abby Lee Miller and their equally invested mothers. Figures like Maddie Ziegler, JoJo Siwa, and Chloé Lukasiak became household names, their childhoods playing out against a backdrop of demanding rehearsals, fierce competitions, and high drama.
The award-winning series, known for its intensity and Abby Lee Miller’s controversial coaching methods – including the dreaded “pyramid” ranking system – captured audiences with its raw portrayal of ambition and the sacrifices made in pursuit of dance dreams. While the pressure was palpable, the bonds formed and the careers launched are undeniable. Even JoJo Siwa, known for her unwavering positivity, acknowledged Abby Lee Miller’s impact in 2022, stating, “Whether the dance community wants to admit it or not, she changed the dance world for the better.”
More than a decade after the first season aired, the Dance Moms legacy continues to evolve. In May 2024, the original cast (minus Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, and Abby Lee Miller) reunited for a highly anticipated two-hour special, reflecting on their shared experiences and the rollercoaster of fame. Adding another chapter to the saga, a reboot, Dance Moms: A New Era, premiered on Hulu in August 2024, introducing a new generation of dancers under the guidance of coach Gloria “Glo” Hampton.
With so much happening in the Dance Moms universe, curiosity about the original cast is at an all-time high. So, where are the dance moms girls now? Let’s dive into what the stars of Dance Moms are doing today, exploring their diverse paths and achievements since leaving the ALDC spotlight.
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, Abby Lee built her own empire with the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC). Dance Moms amplified her already strong personality, showcasing her demanding teaching style and sharp critiques, often directed at both the young dancers and their mothers. Infamous for her “pyramid” ranking system and no-nonsense approach, Abby Lee became a figure viewers loved to watch, and sometimes, love to hate.
Beyond the show’s drama, Abby Lee faced significant legal challenges. In 2015, she was indicted on bankruptcy fraud charges, eventually serving eight months in federal prison followed by a period in a halfway house. Shortly after her release, she faced another major health battle, being diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma in 2018, requiring emergency spinal surgery and extensive treatment. Remarkably, she announced she was cancer-free in 2019 and has since shown incredible resilience in her recovery, even taking her first steps after being wheelchair-bound for a period.
In 2023, Abby Lee made the bittersweet decision to sell the Dance Moms studio property for $300,000, stating she sold the property but not her brand or life’s work. Despite not being invited to the Dance Moms reunion special, Abby Lee maintains connections with some of her former students, including JoJo Siwa, who speaks with her weekly. In a May 2024 interview, Abby Lee reflected on her Dance Moms era, admitting she was “too harsh” on some children, particularly those she felt lacked talent, suggesting a degree of introspection about her past methods. While Coach Glo from the Dance Moms reboot reached out to Abby Lee for a cameo, she declined, but did send a congratulatory message, indicating a complex but perhaps softening relationship with the Dance Moms legacy.
Maddie Ziegler
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Maddie Ziegler, arguably the most recognizable face from Dance Moms, was with the show from the very beginning in 2011 until 2016. Known for her exceptional lyrical dance talent and her position as Abby Lee’s favored dancer, Maddie’s time on Dance Moms was marked by both incredible opportunities and intense pressure. This favoritism often became a point of contention among the dance moms.
Maddie’s career skyrocketed beyond reality TV when she starred in Sia’s music video for “Chandelier” in 2014. This iconic video, now with over 2 billion views, launched Maddie into mainstream fame. She continued collaborating with Sia, appearing in videos for “Elastic Heart,” “Cheap Thrills,” and “Big Girls Cry,” and performing alongside the artist on major platforms.
Leaving Dance Moms opened new avenues for Maddie. She transitioned into acting, securing roles in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Adding author to her resume, Maddie became a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, in 2017. Her modeling career also flourished, featuring campaigns for luxury brands like Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi.
Maddie has been candid about the challenges of growing up on reality TV, describing Dance Moms as a “toxic environment” in a 2022 interview with Cosmopolitan. She spoke about the negative comments she endured and the overall pressure, stating she hasn’t spoken to Abby Lee Miller since leaving the show and feels “at peace” with that distance. In a 2024 interview with Teen Vogue, Maddie reflected on her journey of healing from her childhood experiences and embracing her voice, emphasizing the importance of speaking up for herself and not dimming her light for others. The dance moms girls now, exemplified by Maddie, are navigating their post-show lives with a newfound sense of self and agency.
Kenzie Ziegler
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Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, was the youngest of the original dance moms girls now cast. She charmed audiences from season 1 to season 6 with her bubbly personality and developing dance skills. While often compared to her older sister, Kenzie carved her own path, showcasing versatility and resilience.
Despite the sisterly comparisons, Maddie and Kenzie share a close bond. Kenzie has often expressed admiration for Maddie, citing her as a significant source of advice and inspiration. Together, they even launched a podcast in 2022, Take 20 with Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, offering fans a more personal glimpse into their lives and relationship.
Like Maddie, Kenzie expanded her career beyond Dance Moms. She ventured into acting, starring in the web series Total Eclipse and the movie Let Us In. Kenzie also launched a music career, releasing two albums and popular singles like “paper” and “100 degrees,” showcasing her pop sensibilities. Reality TV remained part of Kenzie’s journey, with appearances on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer, where she placed third, further demonstrating her diverse talents. Kenzie has been in a relationship with TikToker Tacoda Dubbs since 2020. Choosing not to participate in the Dance Moms reunion, Kenzie clarified on TikTok that it was not due to any issues with the cast, but rather a desire to avoid revisiting that particular era of their lives.
Melissa Gisoni
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Melissa Gisoni, mother to Maddie and Kenzie, was a central figure among the dance moms girls now mothers on the show. Known for her unwavering support of her daughters, particularly Maddie, Melissa often navigated the complex dynamics of the ALDC with a mix of ambition and occasional drama. She was sometimes perceived as currying favor with Abby Lee Miller to benefit her daughters, a point of contention with other moms.
Melissa and her daughters left Dance Moms after season 6, with Melissa citing her children’s happiness as her priority and acknowledging the show was limiting Maddie’s career opportunities. Since leaving, Melissa has cultivated a strong online presence, engaging with her millions of followers on Instagram and YouTube, where she shares insights into her life post-Dance Moms. In a 2022 YouTube video, she described her life as “not so stressful” and “much fuller” since leaving the show. Melissa also joined fellow original dance moms Holly, Kelly, and Jill for the podcast Because Mom Said So, reflecting on their shared experiences and offering behind-the-scenes perspectives on the show.
JoJo Siwa
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JoJo Siwa, despite joining Dance Moms in season 5 and being a main cast member for only two seasons, is one of the most globally recognized dance moms girls now. Instantly recognizable for her signature oversized hair bows and energetic personality, JoJo, along with her equally dynamic mother Jessalynn, made a lasting impact on the show.
Leaving Dance Moms in season 6 after securing a deal with Nickelodeon proved to be a pivotal moment for JoJo. Her career exploded, launching her into a multi-faceted entertainment empire. Her 2016 single, “Boomerang,” became a viral sensation, and that same year she launched her “JoJo’s Bows” brand at Claire’s, achieving phenomenal success. Her partnership with Nickelodeon led to TV appearances, merchandise lines, starring roles in movies like Blurt! and The J Team, and co-hosting Lip Sync Battle Shorties.
In 2020, TIME magazine named JoJo one of the 100 Most Influential People, a testament to her widespread impact. In 2021, JoJo publicly came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, further solidifying her role as a positive influence and role model for young people. She made history on Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity paired with a female professional dancer, and later joined the judging panel on So You Think You Can Dance.
JoJo boasts massive social media followings on Instagram and TikTok. Recently, she has been transitioning to a more mature image, ditching the bows and exploring new artistic directions, including a role in the horror movie All My Friends Are Dead and the release of her single “Karma” in early 2024. This marked a deliberate shift towards adulthood in her career and public persona, a transformation many dance moms girls now undergo as they navigate their evolving identities in the public eye.
Jessalynn Siwa
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Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was a force to be reckoned with during her two seasons on Dance Moms. As a dance studio owner herself, Jessalynn brought a unique perspective and unwavering support for JoJo, often clashing with Abby Lee Miller.
Since 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 champion, supporting her through Dancing with the Stars, Special Forces, and her evolving career. Their strong mother-daughter bond and shared professional endeavors are a testament to their enduring partnership beyond the Dance Moms stage.
Chloé Lukasiak
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Chloé Lukasiak was a beloved original cast member, appearing in seasons 1 through 4 and briefly returning in season 7. Known for her grace and emotional performances, Chloé’s journey on Dance Moms was often overshadowed by the tumultuous relationship between her mother, Christi, and Abby Lee Miller, and the intense rivalry fostered between her and Maddie Ziegler.
Chloé departed Dance Moms due to the negative environment and contract disputes, later speaking openly about her difficult experiences in a 2019 YouTube video. She has since built a successful YouTube channel with over 2 million subscribers and ventured into acting, with roles in films like Loophole and The Message. Chloé also authored a memoir, Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World, reflecting on her Dance Moms years and her journey of self-acceptance.
Participating in Dance Moms: The Reunion brought back complex emotions for Chloé, as she acknowledged the lasting impact of Abby Lee’s treatment and the fostered competition. She was in a relationship with Brooklinn Khoury from 2020 to 2023. Like many dance moms girls now, Chloé has navigated the challenges of reality TV fame and emerged with resilience, focusing on creative pursuits and personal growth.
Christi Lukasiak
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Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was a central figure among the dance moms girls now mothers, renowned for her outspoken nature and memorable clashes with Abby Lee Miller and other moms, particularly Melissa Gisoni. Christi’s passionate defense of Chloé and her strong opinions made her a prominent personality on the show.
Since leaving Dance Moms, Christi has thrived as an entrepreneur and online personality. She has a large Instagram following and runs Adulting101, a life skills program for Gen Z women. Her business ventures also include property rentals and podcasts, including Back to the Barre, a Dance Moms rewatch series co-hosted with Kelly Hyland. Christi is also involved with YourMomCares, a non-profit organization supporting youth mental healthcare. Her post-Dance Moms career showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and continued connection with the Dance Moms community.
Nia Sioux
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Nia Sioux holds the distinction of being the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, appearing in the first seven seasons. Throughout her time on the show, Nia faced challenges and moments of triumph, developing a strong fan base who admired her perseverance and grace.
After Dance Moms, Nia pursued diverse creative paths. She made her off-Broadway debut in Trip of Love, appeared in the film I Am Mortal, and had a recurring role on The Bold and the Beautiful. Nia also released music, including the empowering songs “Star in Your Own Life” and “Slay.” She hosted her own Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia, and built a substantial Instagram following.
Currently, Nia is a student at UCLA, studying American literature and culture, with aspirations to become an author. She celebrated her second anniversary with her boyfriend, Gabriel Hawkins, in 2024. While reflecting on her Dance Moms experience, Nia acknowledged its lasting impact, both positive and negative, stating it shaped her into the person she is today. She chose not to participate in the reunion special, explaining she simply “didn’t want to do it,” indicating a desire to move forward from that chapter.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia’s mother, was known for her calm and composed demeanor amidst the Dance Moms drama. As an Ivy League graduate, Holly often provided a voice of reason and intellectual perspective, particularly when addressing issues of race and representation on the show. She frequently clashed with Abby Lee Miller regarding Nia’s treatment as one of the few Black dancers at ALDC.
Years after Dance Moms, Holly spoke to The Washington Post about her and Nia’s experiences, recalling instances where racial insensitivity impacted Nia’s opportunities and representation. She highlighted the complexities of navigating race within the dance world and on reality television. Holly co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with Melissa, Kelly, and Jill. In 2014, she published Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly, reflecting her insightful and thoughtful approach to life.
Brooke Hyland
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Brooke Hyland, the oldest of the original dance moms girls now, danced on seasons 1 through the middle of season 4 with her sister Paige. Brooke was known for her acrobatic dance style and often expressed a desire for a more “normal” teenage life outside of the intense dance world.
Brooke released a self-titled album in 2013, featuring songs like “Summer Love Song” and “I Hurt.” She graduated from Ohio University in 2019 with a business degree and has since become a social media influencer with a substantial Instagram following. In May 2024, Brooke got engaged to her longtime boyfriend, Brian Thalman, marking a new chapter in her personal life. Reflecting on her dance journey, Brooke acknowledged burnout and a desire for normalcy, highlighting the pressures faced by young performers in the reality TV spotlight.
Paige Hyland
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Paige Hyland, Brooke’s younger sister, also danced on Dance Moms from seasons 1 through 4. Her journey on the show was marked by both performance pressure and emotional challenges, culminating in a lawsuit against Abby Lee Miller in 2014, alleging emotional abuse. The lawsuit was later dismissed.
After Dance Moms, Paige pursued higher education, graduating from West Virginia University in 2023 with a business administration degree. Like many dance moms girls now, she maintains an active social media presence on Instagram and has been in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift. Reflecting on her Dance Moms experience, Paige and Brooke have expressed gratitude to their mother, Kelly, for removing them from the show and prioritizing their well-being.
Kelly Hyland
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Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, has a long history with Abby Lee Miller, having been one of Abby Lee’s students in her youth. On Dance Moms, Kelly was fiercely protective of her daughters and often clashed with Abby Lee, culminating in a physical altercation that led to both Kelly and Paige leaving the show in season 4. Kelly also filed a lawsuit against Abby Lee, and faced assault charges herself related to the altercation, but both cases were later dismissed.
Kelly participated in Dance Moms: The Reunion and co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak, and Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa, Holly and Jill. Reflecting on the intense period surrounding their departure from Dance Moms, Brooke and Paige have expressed appreciation for their mother’s actions, recognizing she was ultimately fighting for their well-being and happiness.
Kendall Vertes
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Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained until season 7, becoming a consistent presence and developing her skills within the ALDC environment. Kendall also briefly joined the rival Candy Apples studio during her early seasons, adding to the show’s competitive drama.
During Dance Moms, Kendall launched a singing career, releasing her first single “Wear ‘Em Out” in 2015. After leaving the show, she pursued higher education at James Madison University, joining their dance team and winning a national championship in 2024. Kendall celebrated this achievement with a playful nod to Dance Moms, captioning a photo with “Top of the pyramid🏆💍,” referencing Abby Lee’s pyramid rankings. She has been in a relationship with baseball player Andrew Ciufo since 2022. Kendall has been open about the negative aspects of her Dance Moms experience, but emphasizes the enduring bond she shares with her fellow cast members, describing it as a “trauma-bonded” connection.
Jill Vertes
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Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, joined Dance Moms in season 2, becoming known for her assertive personality and unwavering advocacy for Kendall. Her background in pharmaceutical sales brought a business-minded approach to navigating the competitive world of Dance Moms. Jill frequently clashed with Abby Lee Miller, particularly concerning Kendall’s placement on the pyramid and opportunities within the ALDC.
Since Dance Moms, Jill co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast with Melissa, Holly, and Kelly. She participated in the Dance Moms reunion, describing the experience as emotionally challenging, bringing back difficult memories and reigniting old tensions. Jill reflected on the lasting impact of Abby Lee’s harsh treatment and the emotional toll it took on both her and Kendall, even years after leaving the show.
Kalani Hilliker
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Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4, having previously competed on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition. She remained on Dance Moms until season 7, showcasing her exceptional dance technique and versatility.
After Dance Moms, Kalani continued to dance and act, appearing in shows like Shake It Up, Bunheads, and America’s Got Talent. She also became a dance teacher, aiming to provide a more positive and supportive learning environment for her students. Kalani launched her own skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her personal mental health journey after Dance Moms.
Despite acknowledging the “trauma” from Dance Moms, Kalani has expressed gratitude for Abby Lee Miller’s influence on her career. In August 2024, Kalani announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman, marking a joyful personal milestone. Her journey reflects a blend of acknowledging the challenges of Dance Moms while recognizing the opportunities it provided.
Kira Girard
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Kira Girard, Kalani’s mother, became a regular on Dance Moms from season 4 onwards. Known for her direct personality and strong opinions, Kira often navigated the Dance Moms world with a no-nonsense approach.
Following her departure from Dance Moms after season 7, Kira has largely remained out of the public spotlight, focusing on her family life. She shares updates with her million-plus Instagram followers, offering glimpses into her and Kalani’s lives. While not actively participating in Dance Moms related events, Kira remains connected to the Dance Moms community through her daughter and social media.
Vivi-Anne Stein
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Vivi-Anne Stein, daughter of Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, was a unique presence on Dance Moms from season 1. Representing the rival Candy Apple’s Dance Center, Vivi-Anne was initially known for her apparent disinterest in dance, often delivering deadpan and humorous lines that made her a fan favorite.
Despite her early reluctance, Vivi-Anne did embrace dance over time and continued performing after Dance Moms. She also became a cheerleader in high school and joined the cheer team at Cleveland State University after graduating in 2023. Vivi-Anne’s journey showcases a transformation from a seemingly reluctant participant to a dedicated performer, illustrating the diverse paths dance moms girls now have taken.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother, owned Candy Apple’s Dance Center and served as Abby Lee Miller’s primary rival throughout Dance Moms. Her appearances on the show brought consistent drama and competition, fueling the narrative of rival studios and coaching styles.
Cathy continues to own and operate Candy Apple’s Dance Center, remaining active in the dance studio world. She regularly shares updates on social media, often featuring her daughter Vivi-Anne, showcasing their close relationship and shared passion for dance. Cathy’s continued dedication to her studio and dancers demonstrates her enduring commitment to the dance community.
Gianna “Gia” Martello
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Gianna “Gia” Martello was a constant presence on Dance Moms for all eight seasons, serving as Abby Lee Miller’s choreographer and right-hand woman. Gia’s expertise and dedication were instrumental in shaping the dancers’ routines and preparing them for competitions.
Gia continues to work in the dance industry, teaching dance and judging competitions. She got engaged to Steve Lynch in 2022. Notably, Gia was involved in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video in 2024, showcasing her continued presence and influence within the Dance Moms extended family. Her enduring career in dance and choreography highlights the professional paths pursued by many individuals who contributed to the Dance Moms phenomenon beyond just the young dancers themselves.
The dance moms girls now have truly come a long way since their days on reality television. From actors and singers to entrepreneurs and college students, they’ve each carved unique paths, demonstrating resilience, talent, and the lasting impact of their Dance Moms experience.
