The Dance Moms cast has come a long way from their days at the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) in Pittsburgh. Remember when Dance Moms first graced our TV screens back in 2011? The Lifetime reality show about competitive dance became a cultural phenomenon, giving us drama, tears, and some of the most talented young dancers in entertainment.
Now, more than a decade since the show premiered and six years after it ended in 2019, fans are still wondering: where are the Dance Moms cast members now?
The Dance Moms cast has come a long way from their days at the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC) in Pittsburgh. These former dancers have transformed into successful actors, musicians, influencers, and entrepreneurs. From Maddie Ziegler’s Hollywood breakthrough to JoJo Siwa’s empire, the Dance Moms girls have proven they’re more than just reality TV stars.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what happened to the original cast members, the later season additions, and even Abby Lee Miller herself. Whether you’re curious about their current projects, social media presence, or life after Dance Moms, we’ve got you covered with the most up-to-date information for 2025.
Table of Contents
The Original Dance Moms Stars
The original Dance Moms cast started it all. These young dancers became household names through their incredible talent and the intense drama that unfolded on the Lifetime show. Let’s dive into where each of these Dance Moms stars is today.
Maddie Ziegler – Then & Now
Then: When Maddie Ziegler joined Dance Moms at just 8 years old in 2011, nobody could have predicted the superstar she’d become. As Abby Lee Miller’s favorite student, Maddie consistently topped the infamous pyramid during Seasons 1-6. Her lyrical and contemporary dance skills were unmatched at the ALDC, and she quickly became the face of the show. Maddie’s signature blonde hair, expressive face, and technical precision made her stand out in every dance competition.
Her relationship with Abby was complex but undeniably special. While other Dance Moms cast members struggled for approval, Maddie received constant praise and featured solos. This created tension among the dance moms, particularly with Chloe’s mom, Christi. Despite the controversy, Maddie’s performances were consistently show-stopping.
Now: At 22 years old, Maddie Ziegler has become one of the most successful former Dance Moms stars. Her career breakthrough came in 2014 when music icon Sia discovered her on the show and cast her in the “Chandelier” music video. That performance went viral with over 2 billion views, launching Maddie into international stardom.
What happened to Maddie Ziegler after leaving Dance Moms? She transitioned seamlessly into Hollywood. Maddie appeared in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” (2021) and starred in the coming-of-age film “Fitting In” (2024). She’s also appeared in multiple Sia music videos including “Elastic Heart” and “Big Girls Cry.”
Beyond acting, Maddie has built a massive social media empire with over 13 million Instagram followers. She’s authored books, launched fashion collaborations, and served as a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance.” In recent interviews, Maddie has reflected on the pressures she faced as a child star and how she’s learned to set boundaries in her career. She’s currently focused on choosing mature, challenging acting roles that showcase her growth as a performer.
Current projects: Maddie continues to act in independent films and is developing her own production projects. She’s also become an advocate for mental health awareness among young performers.
Mackenzie Ziegler – Then & Now
Then: Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ziegler was just 6 years old when Dance Moms premiered, making her one of the youngest original cast members. Appearing alongside her older sister Maddie in Seasons 1-6, Kenzie brought adorable energy and impressive acrobatic skills to the Abby Lee Dance Company. However, being Maddie’s younger sister came with challenges.
Throughout the show, Kenzie struggled with constant comparisons to her more technically skilled sister. In Season 3, she emotionally expressed, “I don’t like when Abby always compares me to Maddie because I’m not Maddie, I’m Mackenzie.” Despite this, Kenzie showed remarkable resilience and developed her own unique performance style. She was known for her flexibility, tumbling skills, and comedic timing in her routines.
Kenzie also pursued music early on, releasing her first studio album “Mack Z” in 2014 while still on the show. Her singles “Girl Party” and “It’s a Girl Party” showcased her pop sensibilities even as a pre-teen.
Now: At 19, Mackenzie Ziegler has successfully carved out her own identity separate from her famous sister. What are the Dance Moms doing now? In Kenzie’s case, she’s become a triple-threat entertainer focusing on music, acting, and social media.
After leaving Dance Moms, Kenzie signed with Arista Records at 15 and released her album “Phases” in 2018. Her music has matured along with her, featuring more sophisticated pop production. She toured as the opening act for pop group PrettyMuch in 2019, performing for thousands of fans nationwide.
Kenzie’s acting career includes starring in the web series “Total Eclipse” (2018-2020) and competing on “Dancing With the Stars: Juniors” in 2018, where she showcased how her dance skills had evolved. She’s also appeared in various Nickelodeon productions and made a cameo in the “Monsters at Work” Disney+ series.
With over 15 million Instagram followers and a massive TikTok presence, Kenzie is a major Gen Z influencer. She and Maddie launched a collaboration with American Eagle called “AE x Maddie & Kenzie” in 2023, proving their continued relevance in fashion.
Current status: Kenzie is focused on releasing new music and expanding her acting portfolio with more mature roles that reflect her evolution as an artist.
Chloe Lukasiak – Then & Now
Then: Chloe Lukasiak was Maddie’s biggest rival on Dance Moms, and their competition created some of the show’s most compelling storylines. Joining at age 9, Chloe appeared in Seasons 1-4 and briefly returned in Season 7. Her lyrical and contemporary performances were beautiful and emotional, often rivaling Maddie’s technical precision with pure artistry.
However, Chloe’s time on the show was marked by tension with Abby Lee Miller. Despite her talent, Chloe was frequently criticized and rarely made it to the top of the pyramid. Her mother, Christi Lukasiak, became known for fiercely defending her daughter against Abby’s harsh treatment.
The breaking point came in Season 4 when Abby made insensitive comments about Chloe’s medical condition (silent sinus syndrome), which affected her eye. Chloe and Christi left the show, making Chloe the first original cast member to exit. In a 2019 YouTube video, Chloe explained: “The reason I left Dance Moms was because my former dance teacher made fun of a medical condition I have.”
Now: At 22, Chloe Lukasiak has found success and peace away from competitive dance. Life after Dance Moms has been fulfilling for Chloe, who transitioned into acting and creative writing. She’s appeared in films including “Center Stage: On Pointe,” “Loophole,” and “Next Level.”
But what really sets Chloe apart is her artistic pursuits. She’s become a published poet, sharing her work on her Instagram account @chloelukasiakwrites. Her writing explores themes of identity, healing, and self-discovery—topics deeply personal given her Dance Moms experience.
Chloe attended Pepperdine University, where she studied film and television production, graduating in 2023. She’s documented her college experience through YouTube vlogs, connecting with fans on a more mature level. With 6.8 million Instagram followers, Chloe uses her platform to advocate for anti-bullying and body positivity.
She’s also appeared on her mother’s podcast “Back to the Barre,” co-hosted with Kelly Hyland, where they discuss their Dance Moms experiences with honesty and humor. Chloe participated in the 2024 Dance Moms reunion special, offering healing conversations with former castmates.
Current endeavors: Chloe is pursuing screenwriting and developing her own film projects while continuing to write poetry and advocate for mental health awareness.
Nia Sioux – Then & Now
Then: Nia Sioux Frazier was one of the most underappreciated talents on Dance Moms despite appearing in all seven seasons. Starting at age 10, Nia demonstrated incredible work ethic and versatility at the ALDC. She excelled in various dance styles but was often given less challenging choreography than her peers, particularly Maddie.
Nia’s mother, Dr. Holly Hatcher-Frazier, was the voice of reason among the dance moms. Holly, a college professor with a doctorate in education, approached the show’s drama with grace and intelligence. When asked why they stayed on Dance Moms despite Abby’s treatment, Holly explained they left when they were ready, not when forced out.
Throughout the show, Nia also pursued music and acting, releasing singles like “Star in Your Own Life” and appearing in music videos. Her positive attitude and resilience made her a fan favorite, even when she wasn’t featured prominently.
Now: At 22, Nia Sioux has become one of the most accomplished former Dance Moms cast members. Where are the Dance Moms now? Nia is thriving at UCLA, where she’s currently a senior studying and is an active member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, following in her mother’s footsteps.
Nia’s acting career has flourished since Dance Moms ended. She played Emma Barber on CBS’s “The Bold and the Beautiful” (2018-2019) and appeared in the 2024 “Mean Girls” movie musical. She’s also guest-starred on various TV shows and web series.
Beyond entertainment, Nia has emerged as a voice for social justice. She interviewed Vice President Kamala Harris, discussing issues important to young people. She directed a mental health campaign called “Seize the Awkward” featuring fellow Dance Moms alum Mackenzie Ziegler.
With 5.9 million Instagram followers, Nia uses her platform for activism and representation. She co-hosts the podcast “Adulting with Teala & Nia,” where she discusses navigating life as a young adult in entertainment.
Current status: Nia is balancing her UCLA studies with her acting career and didn’t participate in the 2024 reunion, choosing to focus on her education and upcoming projects.
Brooke Hyland – Then & Now
Then: Brooke Hyland was the oldest of the original Dance Moms stars, joining at age 13. She appeared in Seasons 1-4 alongside her younger sister Paige and their outspoken mother, Kelly. Brooke’s specialty was acrobatics and flexibility—her signature moves included incredible backbends and contortion work that few dancers could match.
However, being a teenager on a show focused on younger dancers created unique challenges. Brooke often expressed wanting a normal teenage life outside of competitive dance. Her relationship with Abby Lee Miller was strained, as Abby felt Brooke wasn’t as committed as the younger dancers.
The Hyland family’s departure from Dance Moms in Season 4 was dramatic, following a physical altercation between Kelly and Abby. The incident led to legal battles and a lawsuit filed on Paige’s behalf against Abby for alleged verbal abuse. The lawsuit was eventually dismissed in 2015.
Now: At 26, Brooke Hyland has moved away from the entertainment industry entirely. What happened to Brooke after leaving the show? She chose education and a more private life. Brooke graduated from Ohio University in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, management information systems, and business analytics.
She briefly explored music, releasing singles “Summer Love Song” with Paige, but ultimately decided that path wasn’t for her. Instead, Brooke has become a successful social media influencer with 4 million Instagram followers, focusing on lifestyle, food, and travel content.
Brooke runs a popular food Instagram account @bitesized_foodie, where she reviews restaurants and shares culinary adventures. She’s built a career as a content creator without relying on her Dance Moms fame, establishing her own brand identity.
Brooke participated in the 2024 Dance Moms reunion, reconnecting with her former castmates and discussing how the show shaped her life. She’s been open about appreciating the opportunities Dance Moms provided while acknowledging the challenges of growing up on reality TV.
Current life: Brooke continues creating content, traveling, and living a relatively private life compared to her more publicly active former castmates.
Paige Hyland – Then & Now
Then: Paige Hyland joined Dance Moms at age 10 alongside her sister Brooke and mother Kelly. Appearing in Seasons 1-4, Paige was known for her sweet personality and contemporary dance skills. However, her time at the Abby Lee Dance Company was marked by struggles with confidence.
Paige often found herself at the bottom of Abby’s pyramid and received harsh criticism about her technique and stage presence. The constant comparisons to Maddie and Chloe affected her self-esteem. Despite these challenges, Paige showed dedication and delivered memorable performances, particularly in lyrical routines.
Like her sister, Paige was involved in the family’s dramatic exit from the show. A lawsuit filed on her behalf alleged that Abby had “insulted and abused” her on “almost daily basis.” The emotional toll of the show on young Paige was evident, though the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed.
Now: At 23, Paige Hyland has found her stride as a social media influencer and content creator. She graduated from West Virginia University in 2023 after attending from 2019, according to her LinkedIn profile. This marked an important milestone in establishing her identity beyond Dance Moms cast member.
Where is Paige Hyland now? She’s thriving on social media with over 3 million Instagram followers. Paige creates lifestyle content, shares college experiences, and maintains close friendships with other former dancers including Chloe and Nia. The three have been spotted celebrating birthdays and supporting each other’s endeavors.
Paige appeared in music videos with her fellow cast members, including “Brooke: Summer Love Song” and “Lux: It’s Like Summer,” maintaining connections to her dance roots. She participated in the 2024 reunion special, offering insights into how the show affected her mental health and self-image.
Current activities: Paige focuses on influencer marketing, brand partnerships, and creating relatable content for her Gen Z audience while maintaining a relatively normal life post-fame.
Later Season Additions
While the original six dancers formed Dance Moms’ foundation, several talented performers joined later seasons and made significant impacts. These Dance Moms stars brought fresh energy and created new dynamics at the ALDC.
JoJo Siwa – Then & Now
Then: JoJo Siwa first appeared on “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition” in 2013 at age 10 before joining Dance Moms in Season 5. She became a main cast member in Seasons 5-6 (2015-2016). JoJo was impossible to miss with her signature oversized hair bows, sparkly outfits, and high-energy performances.
JoJo’s specialty was jazz and musical theater dance, and she brought an infectious enthusiasm to every routine. Her mother, Jessalynn Siwa, a former dance teacher, supported JoJo’s career without the “stage mom” reputation. JoJo has said her mom was actually “the opposite of that,” never forcing her to work constantly.
Even during her time on the show, JoJo was building her brand. She released her breakout single “Boomerang” in 2016, an anti-bullying anthem that resonated with young fans worldwide and was certified double platinum.
Now: At 20, JoJo Siwa is arguably the most financially successful Dance Moms alum. What is JoJo Siwa doing now? She’s built an empire worth an estimated $20 million through music, merchandise, touring, and brand partnerships.
JoJo’s career exploded after Dance Moms. Her D.R.E.A.M. Tour kicked off in 2019, and she’s continued releasing music and performing. She competed on “Dancing With the Stars” Season 30 with an all-female partnership, making history. She’s also served as a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance” and appeared on various reality competition shows.
In 2021, JoJo Siwa came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, becoming an important voice for young queer people. She’s been open about her relationships and identity, using her massive platform (over 12 million Instagram followers) for advocacy. JoJo has stated she was “put on this earth to be a role model for kids.”
Recently, JoJo underwent a dramatic image transformation, ditching her signature bows and bright colors for an edgier aesthetic. Her 2024 single “Karma” marked her rebrand into “gay pop” music, though the transformation received mixed reactions. She’s currently single after her breakup with Avery Cyrus and living independently from her parents.
Current projects: JoJo continues releasing music, touring, and expanding her business ventures while navigating her evolution from children’s entertainer to adult pop star.
Kendall Vertes – Then & Now
Then: Kendall Vertes joined Dance Moms in Season 2 at age 9 and remained through Season 7. Her mother, Jill Vertes, became known for her ambition and desire to see Kendall succeed, sometimes clashing with other moms and Abby over opportunities.
Kendall was a versatile dancer who excelled in lyrical, contemporary, and jazz styles. In Season 7, she joined The Irreplaceables, an elite team coached by Cheryl Burke after leaving Abby Lee Miller’s studio. This group included Chloe, Kalani, Nia, and Camryn Bridges.
During her Dance Moms tenure, Kendall also pursued music, releasing singles including “Wear ‘Em Out,” “Where Would I Be Without You,” and “Out Loud.” Her mother Jill later reflected that the show’s drama was real: “The emotions were totally real, the tears were real. The anger, all of it was real because really we were protecting our children.”
Now: At 21, Kendall Vertes returned to her dance roots after a five-year break. She told WHSV-TV in December 2023: “I danced my entire life. I started when I was 2 years old. I had a very interesting childhood. I was dancing 24/7 for eight years straight, and it was time for me to take a little break.”
Where is Kendall from Dance Moms now? She’s a member of the JMU Dukettes, the official dance team of James Madison University, which she joined in 2022. This marked her triumphant return to competitive dance, but this time in a healthier environment.
Kendall has become a massive social media presence with over 11 million Instagram followers. She creates content about college life, dance, fashion, and lifestyle topics. She participated actively in the 2024 Dance Moms reunion special, calling it a “really happy homecoming” and saying: “We never had the chance to speak up for ourselves and to stand up for ourselves. We were so young, and we just kept our mouths shut.”
Current life: Kendall balances collegiate dance team competitions with her influencer career and is studying at James Madison University while building her personal brand.
Kalani Hilliker – Then & Now
Then: Kalani Hilliker joined Dance Moms in Season 4 as a recurring member at age 13 and became a full-time cast member in Seasons 5-7. She was already an accomplished competition dancer before the show, and her technical skills were immediately apparent. Kalani specialized in lyrical and contemporary dance, often partnering with Maddie in duets.
Her mother, Kira Girard, frequently clashed with Abby Lee Miller throughout their time on the show, particularly over how Kalani was featured and judged compared to other dancers. Despite the backstage drama, Kalani remained focused on her performances and was known for her grace and technical precision.
In Season 7, Kalani left the ALDC with several other dancers to form The Irreplaceables under Cheryl Burke’s coaching, seeking a less toxic training environment.
Now: At 23, Kalani Hilliker has come full circle in her dance journey. What happened to Kalani after leaving Dance Moms? She became what she always wanted to be—a dance teacher creating the positive environment she wished she’d had.
Kalani is now based in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she teaches dance to young students. She explained on social media: “What I love about being a dance teacher is, I realized I just love kids. I think growing up being the oldest and always having younger siblings, being around kids has just always been so much fun for me.”
She added: “Obviously I grew up dancing and the environment sometimes was a little rough, so I think making a safe space for my dancers is something I really enjoy doing.” This statement reflects how former Dance Moms cast members are consciously creating better experiences for the next generation.
Kalani also founded Kare by Kalani, a beauty, cosmetic, and personal care brand. With over 7 million Instagram followers, she balances entrepreneurship with teaching dance. She participated in the 2024 reunion and recently met with Abby Lee Miller, posting a TikTok that showed their relationship has evolved.
Current focus: Kalani continues teaching dance, growing her beauty brand, and creating lifestyle content while maintaining close ties to the dance community.
The Dance Moms & Instructors
No discussion of the Dance Moms cast would be complete without addressing the woman at the center of it all—the controversial instructor whose teaching methods sparked endless debate.
Abby Lee Miller Update
Then: Abby Lee Miller was the founder and owner of the Abby Lee Dance Company, and her no-nonsense (often harsh) teaching style was the catalyst for most of the show’s drama. Throughout Dance Moms’ eight seasons, Abby pushed her students to excellence but often crossed lines with her criticism.
Her infamous pyramid ranking system, where she ranked dancers weekly, created intense competition and emotional turmoil. Abby played favorites (particularly with Maddie), made dancers cry regularly, and frequently clashed with the dance moms. Multiple cast members, including Maddie, Chloe, and others, have since called the environment “toxic.”
Beyond the show, Abby faced serious legal troubles. In 2017, she was convicted of bankruptcy fraud and sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison. She served eight months before being released to a halfway house in 2018.
Now: At 58, Abby Lee Miller continues to be a polarizing figure in the dance world. After her prison stint, she faced another health crisis when she was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Emergency surgery saved her life but left her paraplegic and wheelchair-bound.
Where is Abby Lee Miller now? Despite her health challenges, Abby remains active in dance instruction. She sold her Pittsburgh ALDC studio in 2022 but continues teaching through masterclasses, workshops, and a new studio in Los Angeles. She’s also remained connected to reality TV, appearing in “Dance Moms: A New Era,” which premiered in 2024 featuring a new generation of dancers.
Abby’s relationship with her former dancers remains complicated. While some, like Kalani, have reconnected with her, others maintain distance. She notably did not participate in the 2024 Dance Moms reunion special, though she occasionally comments on social media about her former students’ accomplishments.
In interviews, Abby has expressed some regret about her harsh methods while defending her results: the success of her students. However, many former cast members have been vocal about the lasting impact of her teaching style on their mental health and self-esteem.
Current status: Abby continues teaching dance, managing her brand, and navigating life as a paraplegic while remaining a controversial but undeniable part of dance culture and reality TV history.
Dance Moms Legacy & Impact
Dance Moms wasn’t just a reality show—it became a cultural phenomenon that changed competitive dance, reality TV, and launched the careers of some of entertainment’s biggest young stars. Since Dance Moms ended in 2019, its impact continues to resonate.
Transforming Competitive Dance
Before Dance Moms, competitive dance was relatively unknown outside dance communities. The show brought this world into living rooms worldwide, dramatically increasing interest in dance competitions and studios. Competition dance saw enrollment surge during the show’s run, with studios across America reporting increased interest.
However, the show also sparked debate about appropriate teaching methods. The toxic environment at the ALDC led to important conversations about how young performers should be trained. Many dance educators have since emphasized creating supportive, healthy training environments—a direct response to what viewers saw on Dance Moms.
Reality TV Evolution
Dance Moms helped define a reality TV subgenre focusing on competitive children’s activities. It paved the way for shows like “Dance Moms: A New Era,” “Bring It!,” and similar programs. The show’s formula—mixing competition footage with backstage drama—became a template others tried to replicate.
The series also demonstrated how reality TV could launch genuine entertainment careers. Unlike many reality stars who fade after their shows end, the Dance Moms cast members successfully transitioned into legitimate entertainment careers, proving they had talent beyond manufactured drama.
Mental Health Awareness
Perhaps unintentionally, Dance Moms has contributed to conversations about child performers’ mental health. Multiple cast members have spoken openly about the psychological impact of the show, helping destigmatize discussions about therapy, boundaries, and healing from difficult experiences.
Former Dance Moms stars like Maddie and Chloe have used their platforms to advocate for mental health awareness, particularly for young people in entertainment. Their willingness to discuss their experiences has helped current child performers advocate for better working conditions.
Social Media Pioneers
The Dance Moms girls were among the first reality TV stars to leverage social media into massive careers. Their combined following exceeds 100 million across platforms. They pioneered influencer marketing before it was mainstream, building brands that extended well beyond the show.
This success demonstrated that reality TV fame could translate into sustained digital careers, influencing how future reality stars approached their opportunities.
Table: Dance Moms Cast Social Media Following (2025)
| Cast Member | Instagram Followers | Primary Platform | Career Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maddie Ziegler | 13M+ | Acting/Modeling | |
| Mackenzie Ziegler | 15M+ | Instagram/TikTok | Music/Acting |
| JoJo Siwa | 12M+ | Instagram/YouTube | Music/Entertainment |
| Kendall Vertes | 11M+ | Dance/Influencer | |
| Kalani Hilliker | 7M+ | Dance Teacher/Entrepreneur | |
| Chloe Lukasiak | 6.8M+ | Acting/Writing | |
| Nia Sioux | 5.9M+ | Acting/Activism | |
| Brooke Hyland | 4M+ | Influencer/Food Content | |
| Paige Hyland | 3M+ | Influencer/Lifestyle |
Lasting Friendships
Despite the drama and competition, many Dance Moms cast members have maintained genuine friendships. Chloe, Paige, and Nia regularly celebrate milestones together. The cast’s participation in the 2024 reunion demonstrated that shared experiences—even difficult ones—can create lasting bonds.
These friendships have provided crucial support systems as the former child stars navigate adulthood, careers, and the unique challenges of growing up in the public eye.
Where to Watch Dance Moms Reunion
For fans wondering where to watch the latest Dance Moms content, here’s everything you need to know about the reunion special and streaming options.
Dance Moms: The Reunion (2024)
The two-hour “Dance Moms: The Reunion” special premiered on May 1, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET on Lifetime. The reunion brought together six original and later-season dancers with their mothers:
- Chloe Lukasiak and Christi Lukasiak
- JoJo Siwa and Jessalynn Siwa
- Brooke Hyland, Paige Hyland, and Kelly Hyland
- Kendall Vertes and Jill Vertes
- Kalani Hilliker and Kira Girard
Notably absent were Maddie Ziegler, Mackenzie Ziegler, Nia Sioux, and Abby Lee Miller. The reunion featured candid conversations about their experiences, the show’s impact on their mental health, and their journey to healing.
Kendall described it as “wild” to reunite: “I didn’t really know what to expect because we haven’t really kept in touch that much. But to be able to sit down with these girls and talk about all of our past trauma together, it felt like we’ve never left.”
The special is now available to stream on Lifetime’s website and app for cable subscribers. It’s also available on demand through various streaming platforms that carry Lifetime content.
Streaming Original Dance Moms Episodes
All eight seasons of the original Dance Moms series are available for streaming on:
- Hulu (Seasons 1-8)
- Lifetime website and app (with cable login)
- Amazon Prime Video (purchase or rent)
- Apple TV+ (purchase or rent)
- Google Play (purchase or rent)
Dance Moms: A New Era
In 2024, Lifetime launched “Dance Moms: A New Era,” featuring a new generation of dancers training under Abby Lee Miller’s instruction. While it maintains the competitive dance framework, the new series attempts to address criticisms of the original show’s environment.
The series streams on Lifetime and Hulu, giving fans a chance to see if Abby’s teaching methods have evolved and how a new generation handles the pressure of reality TV competitive dance.
Behind-the-Scenes Content
For deeper dives into the Dance Moms experience, check out:
- “Back to the Barre” podcast hosted by Christi Lukasiak and Kelly Hyland
- “Adulting with Teala & Nia” podcast co-hosted by Nia Sioux
- Cast members’ YouTube channels featuring behind-the-scenes stories and reflections
- Documentary-style retrospectives available on YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was the most successful Dance Moms cast member?
A: Maddie Ziegler and JoJo Siwa are the most successful, with Maddie dominating acting and JoJo building a multi-million dollar entertainment empire.
Q: Why did Chloe leave Dance Moms?
A: Chloe left in Season 4 after Abby Lee Miller made insensitive comments about her medical condition affecting her eye, creating a toxic environment.
Q: Are the Dance Moms cast still friends?
A: Some maintain close friendships—Chloe, Paige, and Nia remain close—while others have drifted apart as they pursued different career paths.
Q: Where is Abby Lee Miller now?
A: Abby continues teaching dance through masterclasses and a Los Angeles studio, though she’s wheelchair-bound after battling cancer and remains controversial.
Q: Did Maddie Ziegler attend the Dance Moms reunion?
A: No, Maddie and her sister Mackenzie did not participate in the 2024 reunion special, focusing instead on their individual careers.
Q: How many seasons of Dance Moms are there?
A: Dance Moms ran for eight seasons from 2011 to 2019 on Lifetime, featuring 243 episodes of competitive dance drama.
Q: Is JoJo Siwa still making music?
A: Yes, JoJo released “Karma” in 2024 and continues performing, though she’s transitioned from children’s entertainment to “gay pop” for adult audiences.
Q: What happened to the original Dance Moms studio?
A: Abby Lee Miller sold the Pittsburgh ALDC studio in 2022 but continues teaching through a Los Angeles location and traveling masterclasses.
Conclusion
The Dance Moms cast has proven they’re far more than reality TV stars. What are the Dance Moms doing now? They’re conquering Hollywood, building business empires, advocating for important causes, and creating healthier environments for the next generation of dancers. From Maddie Ziegler’s film career to JoJo Siwa’s entertainment empire, these former dancers have successfully transitioned from child performers to accomplished adults.
The journey hasn’t been easy. Many have spoken openly about the toxic environment they endured and the mental health challenges they’ve faced. However, their resilience and talent have allowed them to transform difficult experiences into platforms for advocacy, creativity, and success.
Since Dance Moms ended in 2019, the cast has collectively amassed hundreds of millions of social media followers, released chart-topping music, starred in major films and TV shows, graduated from prestigious universities, and built businesses. They’ve shown that life after Dance Moms can be whatever they choose to make it.
Whether you followed them from their days at the Abby Lee Dance Company or discovered them through their post-show careers, the Dance Moms stars continue to entertain, inspire, and evolve. Their story is ultimately one
I’m Watson, a faith-inspired writer passionate about sharing heartfelt blessings and uplifting words that bring peace, gratitude, and hope. Through my daily blessings, I aim to comfort the soul and inspire spiritual growth.