Maddie Ziegler burst onto the scene as a dance prodigy, captivating audiences with her incredible talent and emotive performances. For many, she will forever be associated with her breathtaking dance routines and her early career on the reality show Dance Moms. But as Ziegler has grown, her career path has evolved, leading many to wonder: Does Maddie Ziegler Still Dance?
While dance remains an integral part of who she is, Ziegler has successfully transitioned into a multifaceted entertainer, making significant strides in acting. Her recent projects and statements reveal a nuanced relationship with dance, one where it’s both a foundational skill and a conscious choice rather than a defining constraint.
In her recent film Fitting In, Ziegler took on her first lead role, a significant step in her acting career. She embraced the demanding schedule and challenges of being number one on the call sheet, indicating a strong drive to solidify her place in the acting world. The experience was transformative, marking what she felt was a new chapter in her life. “Fitting In felt like the beginning of a new chapter in Ziegler’s life,” she reflected, highlighting the personal and professional growth this role signified. This dedication to acting suggests a shift in primary focus, even as she acknowledges her dance background.
Ziegler herself has addressed the ever-present question of dance in her life. She openly admits, “dance will never leave Ziegler. It’s still such a huge part of my world, something she never wants to stop pursuing.” This confirms that dance remains a passion and a skill she values. However, she is also mindful of typecasting. She understands that while she can dance, it doesn’t mean every role she takes needs to showcase her dancing abilities. She’s actively seeking roles that allow her to tell impactful stories beyond just dance, demonstrating a desire to be recognized for her acting range.
Looking ahead, Ziegler is strategically building a career with longevity in mind. With multiple feature films under her belt, including the upcoming My Old Ass, she’s focused on being recognized as a mature actress. She draws inspiration from figures like Margot Robbie and Reese Witherspoon, admiring their production companies and envisioning a similar path for herself. This ambition extends beyond acting, hinting at a desire to shape her career from behind the camera as well. Interestingly, she even expressed interest in physically demanding roles, like a female assassin, recognizing how her dance background could be an asset for stunts and action sequences. This potential direction could actually bring dance back into her career in a new and exciting way, albeit within the context of acting.
Reflecting on her journey, Ziegler acknowledges the complex role Dance Moms played in her life. While it brought challenges and public scrutiny during her childhood, she recognizes its undeniable impact on 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 stated, acknowledging that the platform it provided was crucial in leading her to collaborations with Sia and ultimately to her acting career.
Acting has become a powerful tool for Ziegler, allowing her to reclaim her narrative and explore complex characters. It’s a way for her to define herself beyond her early public image. While the question “does Maddie Ziegler still dance” might linger for fans who remember her beginnings, the answer is yes, but in a way that is both personal and strategically integrated into her broader artistic journey. Dance is a foundation, a skill she cherishes, and potentially a tool she might utilize in future roles. However, her primary focus has clearly shifted towards acting, where she is actively building a compelling and diverse career. Maddie Ziegler is not just a dancer anymore; she is a rising Hollywood star with a rich and multifaceted talent set.
