Maddie Ziegler: Achieving More in 21 Years Than Most Do in a Lifetime

At just 21 years old, Maddie Ziegler has accomplished more than many do in a lifetime. From her early days on Dance Moms to becoming a sought-after artist and performer, Ziegler’s journey is a testament to her remarkable talent and resilience.

Waking up in her Los Angeles home, Ziegler is often seen in a relaxed state, reflecting the casual and grounded nature she maintains despite her high-profile career. As she lounges in an oversized T-shirt, her casual demeanor contrasts sharply with the glittering world she operates in. “Sorry, I look a little crazy right now,” she laughs, acknowledging the early hour and the casual setting. Yet, this casual appearance belies the extraordinary trajectory of her career.

For many, Ziegler first entered the public eye through the reality TV show Dance Moms, which aired its first season in 2011. The show followed the lives of young dancers and their mothers at a dance school in Pittsburgh. Ziegler, known for her exceptional dance skills and strong personality, quickly became a standout star. Her presence on the show was both compelling and controversial, and she appeared in over 100 episodes alongside her sister Mackenzie.

However, Ziegler’s relationship with Dance Moms was complex. Reflecting on her time on the show, she acknowledges the trauma and stress that came with it. “I sometimes see them on my TikTok that I’ve never even seen before,” she says, referring to old clips that resurface online. “Seeing it on the internet is insane. Some [clips] break my heart because I’m just like, ‘Oh, I just want to give my younger self a hug and tell her that everything is going to be OK.’” This candid reflection highlights the challenges she faced during her formative years, setting the stage for her desire to distance herself from the show.

In recent years, Ziegler has successfully moved beyond her Dance Moms image, leveraging her talent and work ethic to carve out a diverse career. A significant milestone in this transition was her collaboration with Grammy-nominated artist Sia. Their partnership began in 2014 when Ziegler appeared in the music video for “Chandelier” at the age of 11. This collaboration marked the beginning of a fruitful artistic relationship, with Ziegler starring in several more of Sia’s music videos and joining her on stage at major events like Coachella.

The collaboration with Sia was not just a career boost; it was a transformative experience. “What we did in terms of the art we made was unlike anyone has ever really done,” Ziegler reflects. “To turn that over and have someone be their muse, let alone an 11-year-old, is crazy.” This period was marked by significant milestones, including world tours and high-profile performances, which Ziegler describes as “crazy” and “incredible.”

In addition to her music video work, Ziegler took on a lead role in Sia’s directorial debut, Music, alongside stars like Kate Hudson and Leslie Odom Jr. This role was a testament to her acting and dancing prowess, showcasing her ability to excel in various entertainment fields.

Despite her success, Ziegler is thoughtful about her future collaborations. Although she maintains a strong personal and professional bond with Sia, she is selective about future projects. “There’s nothing lined up, but she’s such an important person in my life,” Ziegler says. “It would need to make sense” if she were to work with Sia again. This careful approach underscores her commitment to maintaining the quality and integrity of her work.

Today, Ziegler’s career extends beyond dancing and acting. She has become a recognizable face in fashion and entertainment, influencing a wide audience through her social media presence and various projects. Her ability to pivot from a reality TV star to a multifaceted performer is a testament to her talent and resilience.

In conclusion, Maddie Ziegler’s journey from a young dancer on Dance Moms to a celebrated artist and fashion icon is nothing short of remarkable. Her story illustrates the power of perseverance and talent in overcoming early challenges and redefining one’s career. As she continues to navigate her professional path, Ziegler’s achievements stand as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with determination and creativity, one can achieve greatness in multiple domains.