We all grew up watching the incredible talent of sisters Maddie and Mackenzie Ziegler on Dance Moms. From their first appearance in Season 1 in 2011, these young dancers, alongside their mom Melissa Gisoni, became central figures on the Lifetime reality show. However, their journey on Dance Moms concluded during season six, leaving fans wondering about their departure. Since leaving the show, both Maddie and Mackenzie have spoken openly about their experiences and the reasons behind their decision to step away from the intense world of reality TV dance.
maddie ziegler and mackenzie ziegler dance moms sisters
Maddie Ziegler’s Departure: Prioritizing Mental Health
Maddie Ziegler’s decision to leave Dance Moms was significantly influenced by the need to protect her mental health. The high-pressure environment and manufactured drama of the reality show took a toll on the young dancer.
In a 2022 interview with Cosmopolitan, Maddie reflected on the stress she endured during her time on the show, stating, “I had more stress at that age than I did once I left.” She even described a sense of detachment from that period of her life, explaining, “I have dissociated so much from that time. I’ll see fans post scenes from Dance Moms and I’m like, ‘I literally don’t even remember that happening.’”
Maddie expressed that leaving Dance Moms was a crucial step for her well-being. While acknowledging Abby Lee Miller’s role in her training and career, she emphasized the necessity of escaping a toxic environment. “She [Abby Lee Miller] was distraught [when my sister and I left]. For the longest time, we felt so guilty,” Maddie admitted. “She trained me, she helped me, but also, I knew I would be OK without her and I was sick of being in a toxic environment. I was like, ‘This is not for me. I can’t do this.’ I haven’t spoken to her since.” Maddie concluded by affirming her improved state of mind, “I feel at peace [now].”
Furthermore, Maddie revealed that the departure was not a sudden decision. She and her family had been attempting to leave Dance Moms for several seasons prior to their actual exit in season 6. Contractual obligations made it challenging to leave sooner, but eventually, they successfully navigated their exit.
Mackenzie Ziegler’s Reasons: Stepping Away from Competition
Mackenzie Ziegler’s reasons for leaving Dance Moms differed slightly from Maddie’s, focusing more on her changing perspective on dance and competition. As she matured, Mackenzie grew weary of the intense competitiveness that was central to the show’s premise.
In a 2020 interview with BBC, Mackenzie explained her shift in attitude: “In the last few years I was on [Dance Moms], I just didn’t take crap from anyone. I was so bossy and I would talk back and I would get in so much trouble … but I wasn’t very competitive,” she recalled. Mackenzie’s desire to dance for enjoyment clashed with the show’s emphasis on winning and external validation. “I wanted to dance for fun, and everyone else wanted to compete, so I was just over it. I was like, ‘I’m just gonna dance and have fun and you can yell at me if you want.’”
dance moms cast group photo
Ultimately, both Maddie and Mackenzie Ziegler’s departures from Dance Moms marked a significant turning point in their young careers and personal lives. While Dance Moms provided them with a platform and numerous opportunities, leaving the show allowed them to prioritize their mental health, redefine their relationship with dance, and pursue new paths.
