Where Are the Dance Moms Kids Now? 15 Years Later, They're All Grown Up

Julia Wagner · 2026-06-04

It's hard to believe it's been 15 years since the premiere of *Dance Moms*. The show took the world by storm, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the intense world of competitive dance. We watched pint-sized performers with big bows and even bigger dreams, all under the watchful (and often controversial) eye of Abby Lee Miller. For anyone in the dance industry, the show was a cultural touchstone. It sparked conversations about training methods, parental involvement, and the pressure we put on young athletes. But beyond the drama, it was about the kids. Now, a decade and a half later, it's fascinating to see where those little girls have landed. ### From the Studio to the Spotlight The most obvious success story is Maddie Ziegler. She was the breakout star, and she didn't just stay in the dance world; she conquered the mainstream. Her partnership with Sia turned her into a global icon. She's since acted in films like *The Fallout* and *West Side Story*, modeled for major fashion houses, and authored books. She's a prime example of how a dance background can be a launchpad for a multifaceted career in entertainment. But Maddie wasn't the only one who found her footing. Her sister, Mackenzie Ziegler, pivoted hard into music and social media. She's built a massive following online, released her own music, and even competed on *Dancing with the Stars*. It's a smart move, showing that the discipline of dance translates well into the world of content creation and pop music. ### Building Careers on Their Own Terms Then you have the Hyland sisters. Chloe, who had a famously rocky relationship with Abby, has carved out a niche in acting and modeling. She's appeared in TV shows and movies, and she's also a published author. Her journey has been about reclaiming her narrative and finding success outside the strict confines of the competition circuit. It's a powerful lesson for any young dancer: your path doesn't have to be linear. Paige Hyland, on the other hand, has stepped back from the limelight. She's focused on her personal life and her education, sharing glimpses of her life on social media. Not everyone who dances professionally wants to stay in the public eye. Sometimes, the win is finding peace and a normal life after years of high-octane training. ### The New Generation of Dance Influencers The show also launched the careers of dancers like Kalani Hilliker and Kendall Vertes. Kalani has become a successful influencer and model, while Kendall has pursued music and acting. They've both leveraged their time on the show into sustainable careers in the digital space. In today's economy, that's no small feat. They've turned their dance fame into a brand, which is a savvy business move. Here are a few key takeaways from their journeys that apply to anyone in the dance world today: - **Dance is a foundation, not a final destination.** The skills you learn—discipline, resilience, and performance—are transferable to almost any career. - **Diversification is key.** The dancers who thrived were the ones who branched out into acting, music, or business. - **Your mental health matters more than a trophy.** Several stars have spoken openly about the pressures of the show, reminding us that the industry has a dark side. ### What the Legacy Means for Dance Studios Today For studio owners and choreographers, the legacy of *Dance Moms* is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it brought unprecedented attention to the art form. On the other, it highlighted the dangers of toxic coaching and stage-parenting. The industry has since shifted toward a more holistic approach, focusing on the well-being of the dancer as much as their technique. We now see a greater emphasis on injury prevention, mental health support, and age-appropriate training. The days of pushing a 7-year-old to tears are fading. Instead, we're seeing a generation of coaches who prioritize longevity over short-term wins. It's a healthier, more sustainable model that benefits everyone. So, where are they now? They're entrepreneurs, actors, musicians, and advocates. They're proof that the lessons learned in a dance studio—the grit, the grace, and the sheer will to perform—can carry you far beyond the stage. It's a reminder that the real reward isn't the trophy; it's the person you become in the process.