‘Dance Moms’ Then and Now: Here’s what happened to the show’s stars
'Dance Moms' then and now: A sneak peek into the lives of our favorite toe-tapping stars
While it might feel like it was only yesterday that Dance Moms concluded its final episode four years ago, in reality, it has been a staggering 12 since the show premiered in 2011. Let's take a look at the endeavors and achievements of the cast members, showcasing the diverse paths they've embarked on since the show's debut.
Abby Lee Miller
The trailblazing founder and head choreographer at the Abby Lee Dance Company, Abby Lee Miller, expanded her presence in the world of dance through spinoff series like 'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition' and 'Dance Moms: Abby's Studio Rescue'. After a hiatus triggered by legal challenges, including a jail term for felony bankruptcy fraud and a battle with Burkitt Lymphoma, she triumphantly returned cancer-free in 2019. Resuming her role in 'Dance Moms', she eventually bid farewell to the series in 2020, marking the chapter's closure in her influential dance career.
Kenzie Ziegler
Kenzie Ziegler, transcending her acrobatic roots, the singer bared her soul in her 2023 release 'Anatomy', delving into her complex relationship with her estranged father. Stepping outside her comfort zone, she shared her authentic narrative beyond social media, expressing the depth of her story to People magazine. With an eye on her third album, she aspires to explore deeper personal aspects of her life, aiming to resonate with her listeners on an emotional level, as per E! News.
JoJo Siwa
JoJo Siwa, emerging from 'Dance Moms' and 'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition', captured hearts with her iconic bows. After achieving YouTube stardom, a Nickelodeon deal, and being featured on Time's 100 list, she is now an LGBTQ+ icon. She made history on 'Dancing With the Stars' with Jenna Johnson. Dreaming of a Super Bowl halftime performance, she reportedly envisions retirement and babies thereafter, all while navigating stardom alongside Miley Cyrus and Kim Kardashian.
Nia Sioux
Nia Sioux, a seasoned OG company member known for her 'death drops', made a mark for herself in the music industry with 2020 single 'Low Key Love'. She also showcased her acting prowess on the web series 'Sunnyside Up' and 'The Bold and the Beautiful' (59 episodes). While balancing studies as a UCLA senior, she also figured under Hollywood's spotlight, earning a spot on Variety's 2023 Young Hollywood Impact Report. Expressing gratitude on Instagram, she embraces the honor of sharing the list with other exceptional individuals.
Paige Hyland
Paige Hyland, a seasoned four-season veteran, has transitioned smoothly post-graduation from West Virginia University in May 2023. Celebrated by Christi Lukasiak on her graduation Instagram post, Paige, now a model and influencer, has been jet-setting across the country, exploring the Hamptons, Colorado, and Wyoming. Her constant travel companion, besides her older sister Brooke, is her boyfriend of four years, Jayvon Thrift, a former college football player and fitness model, whom she adores in every way, as expressed in a heartfelt 2022 post.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier
Dr Holly Frazier, the 'Michelle Obama-lookalike' and acknowledged as the smartest mom in the group has left her stint on 'Dance Moms' behind and moved on to other ventures. She authored 'Moments of Clarity: Daily Affirmations', showcasing her wisdom. Alongside her daughter Nia, Dr Holly starred in 'The Bold and the Beautiful' and co-hosts the 'Because Mom Said So' podcast, offering insights, experiences, and expanding her influence beyond the dance world.
Kendall Vertes
Kendall Vertes, now a James Madison University junior and integral member of the championship-winning dance team, continues to excel. Proudly reflecting on her journey in a September Instagram post, the political science major delights her dance mom Jill Vertes. Beyond dancing, Kendall explores acting with credits like 'Rapunzel: A Princess Frozen in Time' (2019) and the live-action 'Anastasia'. As Kendall K, she releases albums, showcasing her musical talents, while also securing sponsorships through her substantial 11 million Instagram following.
Kalani Hilliker
Kalani Hilliker, now back in Arizona, embraces her 'health and wellness era' with the 2023 launch of her beauty line, Kare. Motivated by her struggles with anxiety, as per E! News she seeks inclusivity in promoting relaxation and self-care. The Season 4 alum, who debuted on Abby's 'Ultimate Dance Competition', masterfully executes arabesques while reigniting her passion for dance and teaching. Contrasting with her past dance instructors, Kalani emphasizes kindness coupled with motivation to bring out the best in her students.
Asia Monet Ray
Asia Monet Ray, having gracefully transitioned beyond the TV spotlight since her early fame on Abby's 'Ultimate Dance Competition', 'Dance Moms', and her series 'Raising Asia', reflects fondly on her past. According to E! News in 2021, despite stepping away before turning 10, she cherishes the positive experience, acknowledging that it wasn't the same for all her co-stars. Graduating high school as valedictorian in June, the accomplished model and artist expresses pride in achieving personal goals. With a bright future fueled by brand deals and high-profile invites, Asia appreciates the foundational experiences of her reality star upbringing, acknowledging the unique lessons it provided for life.
Camryn Bridges
Camryn Bridges, a standout from Season 7, has expanded her dance prowess onto grander stages. Touring with Kendrick Lamar, performing in Usher's Las Vegas residency, and gracing the Grammys stage with Missy Elliott, she expressed overwhelming gratitude for these experiences on Instagram. With a mindset fixed on continuous ascent, she views the end of her 76-show journey with Lamar in December 2022 as just the beginning of her remarkable journey, as her Instagram post says.