Dance Moms, the reality TV sensation that aired on Lifetime from 2011 to 2019, became a cultural phenomenon and a launching pad for numerous young dancers. Among them, Maddie Ziegler, alongside JoJo Siwa and Chloé Lukasiak, captured the hearts of audiences and embarked on remarkable journeys after their time at the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC). Under the rigorous coaching of Abby Lee Miller and the ever-present gaze of their mothers, these young talents navigated the pressures of competitive dance and reality television.
The show, known for its intense atmosphere and Miller’s demanding methods, including the infamous “pyramid” ranking system, garnered both praise and controversy. Yet, despite the challenges, Dance Moms undeniably propelled its stars into the limelight. Even JoJo Siwa, who acknowledges Miller’s tough approach, recognizes her significant impact on the dance world, stating in a 2022 PEOPLE interview, “she changed the dance world for the better.”
Decades after the initial season aired, the Dance Moms cast reunited for a special in May 2024, much to the delight of fans. However, noticeably absent were Maddie Ziegler, her sister Kenzie Ziegler, and Abby Lee Miller herself, highlighting the complex relationships that evolved both on and off screen.
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The Dance Moms cast at the 2016 Kids’ Choice Awards, showcasing the young stars’ rise to fame.
As Dance Moms continues to resonate with audiences and a new generation of dancers emerges in Dance Moms: A New Era on Hulu, curiosity about the original cast members remains high. This article delves into the current endeavors of these celebrated dancers, with a special focus on Maddie Ziegler, answering the burning question: Where Is Maddie From Dance Moms Now?
Abby Lee Miller: Life After the Pyramid
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Abby Lee Miller’s journey from Dance Moms coach to navigating health challenges and career shifts.
Abby Lee Miller, the central figure of Dance Moms, built her dance empire from the ground up. Inspired by her mother, Maryen Lorrain Miller, who owned a dance studio, Abby Lee established the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) with her parents’ financial support. Dance Moms brought both fame and notoriety to Miller, particularly for her demanding coaching style and sharp criticisms directed at both the young dancers and their mothers.
Beyond the show’s drama, Miller faced significant legal challenges. Indicted for bankruptcy fraud in 2015, she was sentenced to prison in 2017. Following her release and halfway house transfer in 2018, Miller faced a serious health battle, being diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma. After undergoing treatment and spinal surgery, she declared herself cancer-free in 2019 and remarkably took her first steps after being wheelchair-bound since 2018.
In a significant life change, Miller sold the Dance Moms studio in 2023, marking a symbolic end to an era. While not invited to the Dance Moms reunion due to requests from some cast members, she maintains connections with some of her former students, including JoJo Siwa. In a 2024 interview, Miller expressed regret for some of her harsh comments on Dance Moms, acknowledging that her intention was to push the dancers to excel, though her methods were often perceived as overly critical. Despite not participating in the Dance Moms: A New Era reboot, she remains a significant figure in the dance world and the legacy of the original show.
Maddie Ziegler: From Dance Moms Prodigy to Global Star
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Maddie Ziegler’s evolution from Dance Moms star to actress, author, and fashion icon.
Maddie Ziegler’s journey from Dance Moms to global stardom is perhaps the most prominent among the original cast. Joining the show at just 7 years old and staying until 2016, Maddie became synonymous with Dance Moms. Her exceptional talent in lyrical dance and her position as Abby Lee Miller’s favored dancer often created friction among the mothers, but solidified her place as a standout performer.
Maddie’s career trajectory shifted dramatically in 2014 when she starred in Sia’s music video for “Chandelier.” This video became a viral sensation, amassing over 2 billion views and catapulting Maddie into mainstream fame. Her collaborations with Sia continued, featuring in videos for “Elastic Heart,” “Cheap Thrills,” and “Big Girls Cry,” and performing alongside the artist at major events.
Where is Maddie from Dance Moms now? Since leaving Dance Moms, Maddie Ziegler has successfully transitioned into acting, securing roles in films like The Fallout, The Book of Henry, Music, and Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. Her talents extend beyond the screen; she is a New York Times best-selling author with her memoir, The Maddie Diaries, and a sought-after model, collaborating with luxury brands such as Givenchy, Kate Spade, and Fendi.
While Maddie has spoken about the “toxic environment” of Dance Moms and the pressures of growing up on reality TV, she has emerged as a resilient and multifaceted artist. She ended her relationship with musician Eddie Benjamin in 2023 and continues to navigate her career with a focus on personal growth and creative expression. Maddie’s decision to not participate in the Dance Moms reunion reflects her desire to move forward and focus on her current path, feeling “at peace” with leaving that chapter of her life behind. Today, Maddie Ziegler is a successful actress, dancer, model, and author, a testament to her hard work and talent that was first showcased on Dance Moms.
Kenzie Ziegler: Balancing Music, Acting, and Reality TV
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Kenzie Ziegler’s diverse career in acting, music, and reality TV after Dance Moms.
Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler, Maddie’s younger sister, also gained prominence on Dance Moms. From season 1 to season 6, Kenzie charmed audiences as the youngest dancer on the team. Despite comparisons to her older sister, Kenzie forged her own path, maintaining a close bond with Maddie throughout. The sisters even co-hosted a podcast, Take 20 with Maddie and Kenzie Ziegler, 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 movie Let Us In. She has also established herself in the music industry, releasing two albums and popular songs like “paper” and “100 degrees.” Kenzie continued her reality TV journey on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Dancer. Currently, she is reportedly dating TikToker Tacoda Dubbs. Similar to Maddie, Kenzie chose not to participate in the Dance Moms reunion, expressing a desire to avoid revisiting that period of her life, indicating a forward-looking perspective shared with her sister.
Melissa Gisoni: Life as a Dance Mom and Beyond
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Melissa Gisoni’s transition from Dance Moms to podcasting and online presence.
Melissa Gisoni, mother to Maddie and Kenzie, was a central figure among the Dance Moms mothers. Often portrayed as favoring Maddie, Melissa’s interactions with Abby Lee Miller and the other moms were a constant source of drama. After leaving Dance Moms in season 6, Melissa cited her daughters’ well-being and career opportunities as primary reasons for their departure.
Melissa has maintained a strong online presence, engaging with fans on Instagram and YouTube. In her YouTube videos, she reflects on her post-Dance Moms life as less stressful and more fulfilling. She also co-hosts the podcast Because Mom Said So with fellow Dance Moms alumni Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes, offering a platform to discuss their shared experiences on the show and beyond.
JoJo Siwa: From Bows to Bold New Directions
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JoJo Siwa’s evolution from Dance Moms bow icon to pop star and LGBTQ+ advocate.
JoJo Siwa, known for her vibrant personality and signature hair bows, is another Dance Moms success story. Joining the show in season 5, JoJo quickly became a fan favorite. Despite leaving Dance Moms in season 6 to pursue a deal with Nickelodeon, her career soared.
JoJo’s single “Boomerang” in 2016 marked the beginning of her pop star trajectory. Her brand, JoJo’s Bows, became a massive commercial success. Collaborations with Nickelodeon, appearances in movies and TV shows, and being named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2020 cemented her celebrity status.
JoJo’s public coming out as LGBTQ+ in 2021 further broadened her influence. Her participation in Dancing with the Stars as the first female celebrity with a same-sex dance partner was groundbreaking. More recently, JoJo has transitioned to a more mature image, releasing the song “Karma” and exploring new artistic directions, signaling a significant shift from her earlier, more child-oriented brand.
Jessalynn Siwa: Supporting JoJo and Building an Empire
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Jessalynn Siwa’s continued partnership with JoJo and ventures beyond Dance Moms.
Jessalynn Siwa, JoJo’s mother, was a prominent figure on Dance Moms. Her strong personality and support for JoJo often led to clashes with Abby Lee Miller. Post-Dance Moms, Jessalynn has remained closely involved in JoJo’s career, co-creating the competition series Siwas Dance Pop Revolution. She continues to be JoJo’s biggest supporter, demonstrating a strong mother-daughter partnership in navigating the entertainment industry.
Chloé Lukasiak: Finding Peace and Creative Outlets
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Chloe Lukasiak’s journey of healing and pursuing acting and writing after Dance Moms.
Chloé Lukasiak, an original Dance Moms cast member, experienced a tumultuous journey on the show, particularly due to the conflict between her mother and Abby Lee Miller. Leaving in season 4 and briefly returning in season 7, Chloé has been open about the negative impact of Dance Moms on her childhood.
Since leaving the show, Chloé has focused on acting, appearing in films like Loophole and The Message. She is also a successful YouTuber and author of the memoir Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World. Chloé has spoken about the lasting impact of Miller’s treatment and the competitive environment fostered on Dance Moms, highlighting her ongoing journey of healing and self-acceptance.
Christi Lukasiak: Entrepreneurship and Advocacy
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Christi Lukasiak’s entrepreneurial ventures and advocacy work post-Dance Moms.
Christi Lukasiak, Chloé’s mother, was known for her outspoken nature and clashes with Abby Lee Miller and other mothers on Dance Moms. Post-Dance Moms, Christi has become a successful entrepreneur, running businesses like Adulting101 and engaging in property rentals. She also co-hosts the Dance Moms rewatch podcast Back to the Barre with Kelly Hyland and is involved with YourMomCares, a non-profit organization supporting youth mental healthcare, demonstrating a commitment to advocacy and community engagement.
Nia Sioux: Academic Pursuits and Artistic Expression
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Nia Sioux’s academic achievements and continued artistic pursuits after Dance Moms.
Nia Sioux, the longest-running dancer on Dance Moms, appeared in the first seven seasons. After the show, Nia transitioned into acting, appearing in Trip of Love, I Am Mortal, and The Bold and the Beautiful. She has also released music and hosted her Facebook Watch series, Dance with Nia.
Currently a student at UCLA studying American literature and culture, Nia aims to become an author. While acknowledging the complex legacy of Dance Moms, Nia recognizes its formative impact on her life. She chose not to participate in the reunion, stating a desire to avoid unnecessary drama and focus on her present and future endeavors.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier: Education, Advocacy, and Podcasting
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Holly Hatcher-Frazier’s advocacy, writing, and podcasting career after Dance Moms.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier, Nia’s mother, was known for her composed demeanor on Dance Moms. Despite conflicts with Abby Lee Miller, particularly regarding racial insensitivity, Holly maintained a thoughtful presence. An Ivy League graduate, Holly co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast and authored Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations from Dr. Holly. She has also spoken about the challenges of navigating racial stereotypes on reality TV, advocating for greater understanding and sensitivity.
Brooke and Paige Hyland: Sisterhood and New Chapters
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Brooke Hyland’s journey from Dance Moms to social media influence and engagement.
Brooke Hyland, the eldest dancer on the team, and her sister Paige Hyland were part of Dance Moms from seasons 1 to 4. Brooke, who released an album in 2013, graduated from Ohio University and is now a social media influencer. Recently engaged to Brian Thalman, Brooke is embarking on a new chapter in her personal life.
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Paige Hyland’s post-Dance Moms life in business and relationships.
Paige Hyland, who sued Abby Lee Miller for assault during her time on Dance Moms, graduated from West Virginia University with a business administration degree. She maintains a strong social media presence and is in a long-term relationship with Jayvon Thrift. The Hyland sisters, along with their mother Kelly, have reflected on their complex experiences on Dance Moms and their journey toward healing and moving forward.
Kelly Hyland: Family, Podcasting, and Reflection
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Kelly Hyland’s reflections on Dance Moms and current podcasting venture.
Kelly Hyland, mother to Brooke and Paige, had a long history with Abby Lee Miller, having been her student as a child. Her departure from Dance Moms was marked by a physical altercation with Miller, leading to lawsuits that were eventually dismissed. Kelly co-hosts the Back to the Barre podcast with Christi Lukasiak and Because Mom Said So with Melissa, Holly, and Jill. She and her daughters have spoken about the challenges and lasting impact of their time on Dance Moms, emphasizing the importance of family support and moving beyond past conflicts.
Kendall and Jill Vertes: Dance, Academia, and Mother-Daughter Bonds
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Kendall Vertes’s dance achievements and academic pursuits since Dance Moms.
Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in season 2 and remained until season 7. She pursued a singing career during the show and later joined the dance team at James Madison University, winning a national championship in 2024. Kendall has been open about her negative experiences on Dance Moms but maintains close relationships with her former castmates.
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Jill Vertes’s reflections on Dance Moms and current podcasting role.
Jill Vertes, Kendall’s mother, was known for her fierce advocacy for her daughter on Dance Moms. She co-hosts the Because Mom Said So podcast and has spoken about the emotional toll of reliving Dance Moms moments during the reunion special, highlighting the enduring impact of the show on both mothers and daughters.
Kalani Hilliker and Kira Girard: Continued Dance and New Beginnings
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Kalani Hilliker’s ongoing dance career and entrepreneurial ventures post-Dance Moms.
Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in season 4 and stayed until season 7. Continuing her dance and acting career, Kalani also became a dance teacher and launched her skincare and wellness brand, Kare by Kalani, inspired by her mental health journey after Dance Moms. Recently engaged to Nathan Goldman, Kalani expresses gratitude for Abby Lee Miller’s influence despite the challenges of the show.
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Kira Girard’s life updates and family focus after Dance Moms.
Kira Girard, Kalani’s mother, largely stepped out of the spotlight after Dance Moms, focusing on family life and sharing updates on social media. While not publicly vocal about the reunion, she remains connected to the Dance Moms community through her daughter.
Vivi-Anne Stein and Cathy Nesbitt-Stein: Dance, Cheer, and Studio Legacy
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Vivi-Anne Stein’s continued dance and cheerleading pursuits after Dance Moms.
Vivi-Anne Stein, known for her candid remarks on Dance Moms, initially appeared uninterested in dance but eventually embraced it. She continued to dance and became a cheerleader in high school and at Cleveland State University, showcasing her evolving interests and talents.
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Cathy Nesbitt-Stein’s continued ownership of Candy Apples Dance Center.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, Vivi-Anne’s mother and owner of Candy Apple’s Dance Center, provided consistent rivalry for Abby Lee Miller on Dance Moms. She continues to operate her dance studio and remains connected with her daughter, highlighting her enduring presence in the dance community.
Gianna “Gia” Martello: Choreography and New Beginnings
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Gianna Martello’s ongoing choreography career after Dance Moms.
Gianna “Gia” Martello, Abby Lee Miller’s long-time choreographer, was integral to Dance Moms throughout its run. Continuing to teach dance and judge competitions, Gia remains active in the dance world. Engaged to Steve Lynch, Gia also participated in JoJo Siwa’s “Karma” music video, showcasing her continued involvement in the broader dance and entertainment industry.
In conclusion, the stars of Dance Moms have navigated diverse paths since their time on the show, achieving success in various fields from acting and music to business and academia. Maddie Ziegler, in particular, exemplifies this post-Dance Moms trajectory, evolving into a global icon through her acting, modeling, and writing endeavors. While Dance Moms presented significant challenges, it undeniably served as a pivotal platform, shaping the careers and lives of these young talents who continue to inspire audiences worldwide.
