“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.
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.
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
Chloé Lukasiak Then
Nine-year-old Chloé Lukasiak was often considered Maddie Ziegler’s primary rival during the early seasons of “Dance Moms.” Each episode was a new challenge as viewers watched the two young dancers vie for the coveted solo performance at that week’s competition.
Chloé was a formidable competitor, often pushing Maddie to her limits and creating a compelling dynamic that captivated audiences.
Chloé Lukasiak Now
Leaving behind the intense and often toxic world of competitive dance, Chloé Lukasiak has blossomed into a multi-talented 21-year-old. She took her passion for the written word public, launching an Instagram account dedicated to her poetry and publishing a book, “Girl on Pointe: Chloe’s Guide to Taking on the World,” in 2018.
Additionally, she’s ventured into acting with roles in movies like “Center Stage: On Pointe” and “Loophole.” She also maintains a popular YouTube channel, where she engages with her 2 million subscribers about life, college experiences, and more.
Nia Sioux Then
At just 10 years old, Nia Sioux stepped into the limelight as one of the younger talents on the reality TV show “Dance Moms.” Although Abby Lee Miller, the owner of the Abby Lee Dance Company, didn’t seem to favor her as much as some of the other dancers, Nia stood her ground and shined in her own unique way.
Her proficiency in a demanding dance move known as the ‘death drop’ garnered attention and showed her skill, ambition, and potential. Despite the challenges, Nia never wavered and continued to grow as a dancer.
Nia Sioux Now
Currently enrolled at UCLA, Nia Sioux is carving out a multi-faceted career for herself. Juggling university life with a burgeoning career in singing and acting, she has certainly kept her plate full. She’s worked on TV shows like CBS’s “The Bold and the Beautiful” and the web series “Sunnyside Up.”
Her latest single, “Low Key Love,” was released in 2020, and she runs a popular YouTube channel with over a million subscribers. Additionally, she co-hosts the podcast “Adulting With Teala and Nia” with Teala Dunn and has acting credits in the TV movie “Imperfect High” and the film “I Am Mortal.”
Brooke Hyland Then
As the eldest member of the ALDC team on “Dance Moms,” 13-year-old Brooke Hyland was already a seasoned dancer by the time she joined the show. Yet, she often felt the pull of a more typical teenage life, missing out on regular high-school activities due to her intense focus on dance.
Her struggle with balancing a normal life and her commitment to dance added an intriguing layer to her storyline on the show.
Brooke Hyland Now
After exiting “Dance Moms” at age 16, Brooke fulfilled her desire for a more traditional school experience by completing high school and later graduating from Ohio University with a degree in marketing.
She briefly explored a singing career post-show but now manages a food-themed Instagram account and occasionally uploads content to her YouTube channel, which boasts over 200,000 subscribers. Still good friends with former co-star Nia Sioux, Brooke seems to have found a satisfying balance between her public and private lives.
Paige Hyland Then
Paige Hyland was only 10 years old when she appeared on “Dance Moms,” often overshadowed by stars like Maddie Ziegler and Chloé Lukasiak.
Despite her best efforts, Paige was frequently relegated to group performances rather than solos, but she never let that diminish her spirit or enthusiasm for dance.
Paige Hyland Now
Kendall Vertes made her “Dance Moms” debut in the show’s second season. A dancer from the age of 18 months, nine-year-old Kendall brought a unique flair and talent to the Abby Lee Dance Company. Staying through to season seven, she became a familiar face on the reality series.
The young dancer never shied away from challenges, often tackling intricate routines that showcased her evolving skills. Over the years, fans watched her grow not just as a dancer but as a young woman navigating the complexities of fame and adolescence.
Kendall Vertes Then
Kendall Vertes made her “Dance Moms” debut in the show’s second season. A dancer from the age of 18 months, nine-year-old Kendall brought a unique flair and talent to the Abby Lee Dance Company. Staying through to season seven, she became a familiar face on the reality series.
The young dancer never shied away from challenges, often tackling intricate routines that showcased her evolving skills. Over the years, fans watched her grow not just as a dancer but as a young woman navigating the complexities of fame and adolescence.
Kendall Vertes Now
Now 20 years old, Kendall has expanded her horizons significantly, venturing into acting and singing. She goes by the stage name Kendall K and has released several albums and singles. Her latest song, “Girl Talk,” came out in 2018. She also appeared in movies like “Rapunzel: A Princess Frozen in Time,” “Santa in Training,” and a live-action version of “Anastasia.”
Moreover, she hosts “The Kendall K. and Friends Show” on CBS-TV and maintains a robust Instagram presence with over 10 million followers. Her multi-faceted career is a testament to her wide-ranging talents.
Lilliana Ketchman Then
Lilliana Ketchman, often called “Lilly,” joined “Dance Moms” in the show’s sixth season and quickly made a name for herself as a petite prodigy with big talent. With her technical prowess and expressive performances, Lilly became a standout dancer despite her young age.
Lilly’s petite size and immense talent often had her dubbed as the “mini Maddie,” a nod to early ALDC standout Maddie Ziegler.
Lilliana Ketchman Now
Today, Lilliana has leveraged her fame into a thriving social media career, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. She’s extended her skills into acting, modeling, and even writing, having authored a children’s book.
Despite her young age, she’s also committed to charity work, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for causes close to her heart. In addition to her entertainment ventures, Lilly continues to dance competitively and attends workshops, proving that her passion for dance remains as strong as ever.
Asia Monet Ray Then
Asia Monet Ray joined “Dance Moms” in its third season at the tender age of 8. Even at such a young age, she proved herself to be a formidable competitor, challenging fellow dancers like Mackenzie for the spotlight.
Known for her technical ability and stage presence, Asia was a standout member of the ALDC team. The show provided her a platform to display her talents and captured her journey as she navigated the pressures of young stardom.
Asia Monet Ray Now
Now 17, Asia Monet Ray is primarily focusing on her music career. After “Dance Moms,” she starred in her own Lifetime reality show, “Raising Asia,” which ran for a single season in 2014.
She has also shown her acting prowess with roles in ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” and FX’s “American Crime Story.” Her music career has seen the release of her single “Real Life” in 2019, and she has nearly 500,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel, where she posts song covers.
Kalani Hilliker Then
Kalani Hilliker first gained attention on “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition,” a spin-off of “Dance Moms.” Winning a place in the hearts of fans, she transitioned to “Dance Moms” at the age of 13.
She was known for her elegance and technical mastery, qualities that helped her stand out in a highly competitive environment. Her presence added a different dynamic to the team and show alike.
Kalani Hilliker Now
At 22, Kalani Hilliker is still deeply involved in the dance world. Her Instagram account, with over 7 million followers, frequently features videos where she showcases her extraordinary dance skills. Aside from dancing, Kalani also vlogs on her YouTube channel, which has nearly 800,000 subscribers.
She’s ventured into fashion with a line of formal dresses for Prom Girl, attended by several “Dance Moms” alumni like Nia and Kendall at the launch. Kalani has also acted in films like “Swiped” and the TV show “Dirt.” Most recently, she has expanded her brand into the beauty industry with her line called Kare by Kalani.
Maddie Ziegler Then
When Maddie Ziegler was just 8 years old, she became a household name through the hit reality show “Dance Moms.” From the very first episode, her talent was evident, and her mother, Melissa Gisoni, proudly announced that Maddie was the favorite pupil of Abby Lee Miller, the stern and sometimes abrasive owner of the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC).
Maddie didn’t just gain Abby Lee’s favor; she held onto it throughout her time on the show, distinguishing herself as one of the most promising young talents at the ALDC.
Maddie Ziegler Now
Fast forward to today, and 20-year-old Maddie Ziegler has expanded her horizons beyond anyone’s expectations. She shot to national fame when she appeared in Sia’s groundbreaking music video, “Chandelier,” in 2014.
This collaboration was so successful that she continued to work closely with the artist, even starring in Sia’s contentious 2021 movie, “Music.” In addition to her dance and acting pursuits, Maddie has served as a judge on Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance?” She’s also a published author with her 2017 memoir, “The Maddie Diaries,” and in 2020, she launched a makeup collection with Morphe.
JoJo Siwa Then
JoJo Siwa became part of the “Dance Moms” family in its fifth season, but her journey in the limelight began earlier. Before joining Abby Lee Miller’s competitive dance team, JoJo had already made a name for herself on “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition” at the young age of 9.
She came into the show with an effervescent personality, a trait that made her one of the most recognizable faces on the series. Her unique style, featuring bright colors and her trademark hair bows, made her a standout. Even as a late addition to the series, she quickly became a fan favorite.
JoJo Siwa Now
Fast forward to 2023, JoJo Siwa is a household name and one of the most famous stars to emerge from “Dance Moms.” With over 12 million subscribers on YouTube and an astounding 45 million followers on TikTok, she has built an empire. The multi-talented 19-year-old is not just a dancer but an actor, singer, and vlogger. She has an accessories line with Claire’s and took on roles like the T-Rex in Fox’s “The Masked Singer.” In 2020, Time magazine named her one of the 100 most influential people, underlining her cultural impact.
She starred in the Nickelodeon movie “The J Team” in 2021 and is slated to appear in the horror film “All My Friends Are Dead.” On ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars,” she earned a perfect score and came in second place. Aside from her professional achievements, JoJo has been open about her sexuality, coming out as queer and becoming an inspiration for many.
Abby Lee Miller Then
Abby Lee Miller was the inimitable force behind ALDC and became a household name with the debut of “Dance Moms” in 2011. Known for her strict coaching style and often abrasive behavior, Miller groomed young talents into competitive dancers.
She was the linchpin of the show, and her methods, albeit controversial, were aimed at extracting the best performances from her students. Her own personal journey was also on display, providing a nuanced look into the highs and lows of managing a competitive dance studio.
Abby Lee Miller Now
Today, Abby Lee Miller has seen a shift in her life narrative. In 2017, she served a prison sentence for bankruptcy fraud and has since been diagnosed with a type of spinal cancer. However, she returned to the spotlight with “Dance Moms: Resurrection” in 2019, chronicling her life post-prison and health issues.
Despite the setbacks, her passion for dance coaching remains unshaken. She continues to work in the dance industry, often making guest appearances and offering online dance classes to aspiring dancers.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier Then
Holly Hatcher-Frazier, mother to Nia Sioux, was known as the voice of reason on “Dance Moms.” With a background in education, Holly often brought a more balanced perspective to the often chaotic atmosphere at the ALDC.
She was an advocate for her daughter Nia, fighting for equitable treatment and opportunities within the competitive team. Her composed demeanor stood out among a sea of more confrontational personalities.
Holly Hatcher-Frazier Now
Today, Holly continues her work in education and advocacy. She often speaks on panels about the importance of diversity and inclusion, leveraging her fame for greater social impact.
Her daughter Nia has gone on to find success in acting, singing, and dancing, something Holly proudly shares on her social media platforms.
Melissa Gisoni Then
Melissa Gisoni, the mother of Maddie and Mackenzie Ziegler, was often portrayed as the “favorite” mom due to Abby Lee Miller’s special treatment of her daughters.
Melissa was fiercely protective of her children and was willing to go to great lengths to ensure their success, even if it meant stirring the pot with the other moms.
Melissa Gisoni Now
Melissa has taken a step back from the public eye to some extent, allowing her daughters to shine in their respective careers. Maddie has become a dance sensation and actress, while Mackenzie (now Kenzie) has found success in music.
Melissa now manages her daughters’ burgeoning careers and is often seen accompanying them to events and projects.
Christi Lukasiak Then
Christi Lukasiak, mother of Chloe Lukasiak, was one of the more outspoken moms on “Dance Moms.” Known for her quick wit and fiery temper, Christi was never shy about challenging Abby Lee Miller’s decisions, particularly when she felt Chloe was being treated unfairly.
Her passionate involvement made her a fan favorite, as viewers could see her genuine commitment to her daughter’s well-being and future in dance.
Christi Lukasiak Now
Today, Christi has channeled her outspokenness into various platforms, including a YouTube channel where she talks about lifestyle, parenting, and, occasionally, her time on “Dance Moms.”
She also co-hosts a podcast called “Christi’s Couch,” where she discusses various topics, from pop culture to motherhood. Her daughter Chloe continues to be active in the dance and entertainment industry, and Christi remains her biggest supporter.
Jill Vertes Then
Jill Vertes, mom to Kendall Vertes, joined “Dance Moms” in the second season. Known for her fashionable looks and willingness to speak her mind, Jill quickly became a central figure on the show.
She was proactive in securing opportunities for Kendall and was willing to confront Abby Lee Miller when she disagreed with her teaching methods or decisions about Kendall’s role in the team.
Jill Vertes Now
Jill has transitioned into a lifestyle influencer, with a strong presence on social media platforms. She often posts about her day-to-day life, fashion, and updates about her family.
Her daughter Kendall has moved on to acting and singing, and Jill remains involved in her career, promoting her projects and being a supportive mom as always.
Kira Hilliker Then
Kira Hilliker, known by her stage name Kira Girard, first caught the public eye on the reality TV show “Dance Moms” during its fourth season, primarily as the mother of competitive dancer Kalani Hilliker. Eager to see her daughter compete against another prominent dancer, Maddie, Kira faced resistance from the show’s host, Abby Lee Miller.
However, despite the challenging dynamics and dramatic confrontations on the show, one of which escalated into a screaming match with Abby in Season 5, Kira remained a notable presence until she and her daughter left following the midseason finale of Season 4.
Kira Hilliker Now
Life after “Dance Moms” has seen Kira Hilliker, or Kira Girard, transition into a new chapter. Now a mother of four, Kira has been focusing on her family. She got engaged to David Newman, a real estate agent, during the Season 5 reunion of “Dance Moms,” and the couple has since welcomed two more children, adding to their blended family. Besides her family life, Kira has also cultivated a substantial social media following, with 1.4 million followers on Instagram where she shares glimpses into her family life and her favorite fashion finds.
She has an Amazon storefront and a Liketoknowit account where she shares fashion picks with her followers. Despite the rough past and the dramatic tenure on “Dance Moms,” Kira seems to have found a fulfilling life centered around her family and social media engagement, showcasing a softer side away from the heated confrontations that once characterized her TV persona.
Kelly Hyland Then
Kelly Hyland was one of the original moms on “Dance Moms,” known for her supportive nature towards her children’s choices, such as letting her daughter Brooke try out for cheerleading instead of attending a dance competition. This was a reflection of Kelly’s desire to avoid any future regrets for her children.
Her tenure on the show, however, was marked by intense clashes with the show’s host, Abby Lee Miller, leading to often explosive confrontations. One notable altercation in season four escalated to a physical level, resulting in Kelly’s departure from the show alongside her daughters, never to return.
Kelly Hyland Now
Post “Dance Moms,” Kelly Hyland has ventured into podcasting, connecting with her former cast mates Jill Vertes, Holly Frazier, and Melissa Gisoni to start a podcast named “Because Mom Said So.” The podcast covers a variety of topics, reflecting the diverse interests and opinions of the hosts. Additionally, Kelly partnered with Christi Lukasiak, another “Dance Moms” alum, to create a new podcast called “Back to Barre with Christi and Kelly,” where they rewatch “Dance Moms” episodes and provide behind-the-scenes insights.
Besides podcasting, Kelly also had a legal encounter with Abby Lee Miller in 2014, filing a lawsuit alleging emotional distress on behalf of her daughter Paige, although the lawsuit was later dismissed. While Kelly has distanced herself from the show, she continues to reminisce about her “Dance Moms” experiences, even hinting at the possibility of writing a book about her time at the studio.
Brynn Rumfallo Then
Brynn Rumfallo, an aspiring dancer, was introduced to the audience in season 5 of “Dance Moms” as a guest member of the Abby Lee Dance Company Junior Elite Competition Team. Her impeccable dance skills led to her being pegged as Abby Lee Miller’s next big star.
Though initially joining for a few episodes, her time on the show extended, demonstrating her impressive contemporary dance styles, and earning her a place in the team. However, her journey on “Dance Moms” came to an end during season 7 in 2017, but she never let go of her love for performing.
Brynn Rumfallo Now
Post “Dance Moms”, Brynn has continued to pursue her passion for dancing, honing her skills at Danceplex in Arizona. Her talent led her to partake in the anti-gun violence video “We Are the Future” in 2018. Besides dancing, Brynn has explored acting, appearing on “Boss Cheer,” a comedy series aired on the digital network Brat, showcasing the world of competitive cheerleading—an area Brynn is familiar with as she also competes as a cheerleader at the high school level.
Additionally, Brynn has carved a niche for herself on social media, amassing a following of 2.9 million on Instagram, where she also promotes her line of merchandise. With a growing influence online and continued involvement in dance and acting, Brynn Rumfallo’s journey from a young competitive dancer to a budding entrepreneur and actress underscores her diversified talents and the promising path that lies ahead for her.
Jessalynn Siwa Then
Jessalynn Siwa, mother to pop star JoJo Siwa, became a recognizable face on the show “Dance Moms” during its fifth season. Before stepping into the reality TV limelight, Jessalynn owned a dance studio in Omaha, Nebraska, called Just Dance Co, where she taught and choreographed dances.
This studio was also the stepping stone for young JoJo’s dance career. Jessalynn’s journey on “Dance Moms” began as she joined alongside her daughter, showcasing not only JoJo’s talent but also the supportive and managerial role that Jessalynn played in nurturing her daughter’s budding career. Their time on “Dance Moms” significantly contributed to the spotlight JoJo received, paving the way for her flourishing career in the entertainment industry.
Jessalynn Siwa Now
Post “Dance Moms”, Jessalynn transitioned into the role of a “momager,” managing JoJo’s bustling career, handling her schedule, and appearances. Their move to California from Nebraska was aimed at pursuing JoJo’s career, a mission that Jessalynn was committed to since JoJo’s early dance days. However, Jessalynn also embarked on individual ventures. In 2020, she launched a podcast called “Success with Jess,” aiming to inspire others to chase their dreams and share amusing tales from her parenting journey. Moreover, in 2021, Jessalynn and JoJo collaborated on a dance competition series titled “Siwa’s Dance Pop Revolution” on Peacock, aiding talented dancers and forming an all-girls pop group named XOMG Pop.
Additionally, Jessalynn started a business named Bling Bitz Rhinestones, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Through all these ventures, Jessalynn continues to support her children wholeheartedly, staying involved in JoJo’s career while also pursuing her own interests and projects.
Ashlee Terry Rumfallo Then
Ashlee Terry Rumfallo joined the “Dance Moms” universe in its fifth season alongside her daughter, Brynn Rumfallo, as guests before becoming permanent members in the sixth season. Before her stint on “Dance Moms”, Ashlee was a stay-at-home mom who nurtured her creativity by turning her art projects into a business right from her garage, leading to the opening of a shop named Splinters.
On “Dance Moms”, she was seen supporting her daughter Brynn, a lyrical/acro dancer, through various competitions. The show provided a platform for her daughter, which helped Brynn showcase her dance talent to a broader audience.
Ashlee Terry Rumfallo Now
Post “Dance Moms”, Ashlee Terry Rumfallo’s public endeavors have been relatively less documented compared to her time on the show. However, her involvement in the dance and entertainment world extended beyond “Dance Moms” as she was credited for appearances in “Todrick Hall Feat. Abby Lee Dance Company: Dance” (2016) and “JoJo’s Juice” (2015).
The transition from reality TV to other entertainment projects, even if in a limited capacity, signifies her continuous engagement with the industry. Her support for her daughter Brynn’s dance and acting pursuits continues to be a significant part of her life, indicating her enduring commitment to her family’s artistic endeavors.
Stacey Ketchman Then
Stacey Ketchman, mother to budding dance star Lilliana Ketchman, became a part of the “Dance Moms” narrative in the episode “Return of the Minis” as part of the mini team. Before the spotlight of reality TV, Stacey was no stranger to dance, having started dancing at the age of 5 and later competing in dance and gymnastics during her childhood.
The journey on “Dance Moms” saw her supporting her daughter through various dance competitions, amidst the high-pressure environment of elite junior dance competition. However, her stint on the show experienced a pause when the Elite Competition Team was disbanded but she and her daughter made a comeback in the episode “Abby’s Big Comeback,” showcasing their resilience and continued passion for dance.
Stacey Ketchman Now
Post “Dance Moms”, Stacey Ketchman has showcased her dance and lip-sync talents to a broader audience via her TikTok account. Her engagement with the dance community extends to social media where she often shares snippets of dance routines and lip-sync videos. Besides, she also took on the role of a brand ambassador for Dr. Kay Beauty.
Stacey’s involvement in the entertainment world isn’t just confined to reality TV and social media, as she has been credited with appearances in productions like “Buns” (2017), “Dance Moms Funniest Fights” (2019), and “The Kendall K. & Friends Show” (2022). Her journey reflects a continuous engagement with dance and the entertainment sphere, all while supporting her daughter’s blossoming dance career. Additionally, her past profession as a clinical psychologist at the Haymount Institute adds a unique facet to her diverse career journey.