Dancefloor to Divas: Juicy Updates on ‘Dance Moms’ Most Famous Faces
“Dance Moms,” the reality TV show that put Abby Lee Miller’s dance studio on the map, has been a launching pad for young talent since its premiere in 2011. The show not only offers a glimpse into the high-pressure world of competitive dance but also serves as a fascinating study of ambition, talent, and the complex dynamics between parents and instructors.
While Abby Lee Miller’s tough coaching style has been a subject of debate, there’s no denying the platform the show has provided for its young stars. Many have leveraged their initial exposure to build incredible careers in various fields. This article takes a deep dive into the “Then and Now” of some of the most iconic “Dance Moms” alums, exploring how they have transitioned from aspiring dancers to multidimensional artists and influencers.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein Then
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein, mother to Vivi-Anne Stein, initially joined the Abby Lee Dance Company with her daughter at the onset of “Dance Moms.” However, they soon left to return to Cathy’s own dance studio, Candy Apple’s Dance Center, located in Canton, Ohio. This sparked a notable rivalry between Cathy and Abby Lee Miller, further fueling the drama on the show.
Cathy’s studio often competed against Abby’s, with both mothers showcasing their competitive nature. Despite the tension, Cathy and Vivi-Anne became fan favorites, known for their unique dynamic and rivalry with Abby. Cathy’s presence on the show highlighted the competitive and dramatic aspects of the dance world, leading to many memorable moments on the series.
Cathy Nesbitt-Stein Now
After the show, Cathy continued to run her dance studio, Candy Apple’s Dance Center, maintaining a strong presence in the dance community. She also mended her relationship with Abby Lee Miller, with the two reuniting in November 2022 and Cathy appearing on Abby’s podcast, “Leave It On The Dance Floor,” revealing the transformation in their relationship.
Currently, Cathy is adjusting to life as an empty nester, with her daughter Vivi-Anne attending Cleveland State University. Despite the distance, Cathy remains a supportive mother, sharing glimpses of her daughter’s college life and their moments together on social media. Cathy’s journey from a rival dance mom to a supportive mother showcases her evolving relationship with dance, her daughter, and her former Dance Moms co-stars
Mackenzie Ziegler Then
Younger sister Mackenzie Ziegler was only about 6 years old when she joined “Dance Moms.” Even at that tender age, she was part of the ALDC team, although she competed in a younger age bracket.
Known for her quirky and humorous personality, Mackenzie often provided comic relief on the show. She once humorously declared that she didn’t aspire to be a Broadway dancer; instead, she’d prefer to stay home and snack on chips.
Mackenzie Ziegler Now
Mackenzie Ziegler, now going by the stage name Kenzie, has come into her own, crafting a multi-faceted career that extends well beyond dance. After departing “Dance Moms,” she released her debut album “Phases” in 2018 and even collaborated with Sia on a song in 2020.
Her acting credits include roles in the web series “Total Eclipse” and voicing a character in the film “Ice Princess Lily.” She also competed on Fox’s “The Masked Dancer,” finishing in third place. Most recently, she released a new single, “Paper,” cementing her place in the entertainment industry.