Why did Dance Moms come to an end? Show set to return to screens with a spin-off series

Dance Moms finally ended on Lifetime after eight seasons, riddled with controversies and problems within the show. What was originally pitched as covering the world of competitive dance through Abby Lee Dance Company turned into dramatic content with extreme arguments. The show had been under heavy scrutiny over the years for many aspects, especially with the main star, Abby Lee Miller, and the further dynamics and reception this had on the show.

Despite the end of Dance Moms, the franchise is returning with a new spin-off series titled Dance Moms: A New Era. Set to premiere on Hulu, the spin-off introduces Gloria Glo Hampton as the new head of Studio Bleu, bringing a more positive and professional approach to the dance world.

---

Dance Moms controversies and legal cases

Most notably, Abby Lee Miller, the coach, was infamous for her abrasiveness, and she would allegedly show favoritism among the dancers by picking on some and scolding others. In doing so, it created a battle-like atmosphere that invited negative responses from the audience and the participants alike.

Specific incidents, including the season 2 controversial routine with feathered fans that seemed too risqué added to the bad light in which the show was viewed. During such a performance in episode 9, titled Topless Showgirls, young dancers used feathered fans to create an illusion of nudity. This episode outraged the mothers and viewers who found the performance inappropriate for the age of the dancers.

The controversy from the scene led Lifetime to pull the episode from rotation and streaming services. The moms were so alarmed by the controversy of season 2 that tensions rose, with much criticism being aimed at Miller's judgment. This incident served as the center of the debate regarding the appropriateness and direction of the show.

Miller's legal troubles further worsened things. In 2017, she was convicted of bankruptcy fraud, which could have stained her reputation and brought more problems to the franchise. The attempt at revival in 2020 failed due to the ongoing scandals and Miller's legal entanglements.

---

Racism allegations and the franchise revival failure

Racism allegations played a very significant role in the downfall of the show. Miller faced criticism over how she handled performances by African-American dancers, leading to accusations of racial insensitivity. The choreographer responded with an open apology through her Instagram post in 2020.

Even after such apologies and steps taken to soothe the concerns, Miller could not revive Dance Moms in 2020. The revival became quite difficult, with controversies and a negative perception building around the show.

---

Introducing Dance Moms: A New Era

Even though the show got canceled, the franchise is getting a makeover in the form of Dance Moms: A New Era, which will now be aired on Hulu. This spin-off takes another approach to the competitive dance world. The new show will feature Gloria Glo Hampton as the head of Studio Bleu. She is tasked with directing and training young dancers, with the show focusing on a much more optimistic and professional outlook on the art of competitive dance.

Hampton is an award-winning dance community member in dance education and choreography. For over 40 years, she has worked in studios nationwide. Some highlights of Hampton's career include winning Best Dance Instructor in Loudoun County, Virginia, Teacher of the Year title at the Star Dance Alliance, and choreographing for Reebok shoe shows.

Much of the spin-off revolves around Hampton taking charge and showing care for the dancers at Studio Bleu. They aim to give their audience a refreshed understanding of the competitive dance world, showing the audience its most positive qualities.

---

What to look forward to in the spin-off?

Cast of Dance Moms: New Era posing in front of their very own Billboard at Times Square (Image via Instagram/@leilahdancegirl)

Dance Moms: A New Era is a new series that focuses on the lives of young dancers with Hampton as their instructor. The spin-off intends to have a much more well-rounded, professional view of competitive dance than the original series's often controversial and dramatic nature.

---

Dance Moms: A New Era is available on Hulu. This fresh spin-off debuted on August 7, 2024. Stay tuned for updates as the show unfolds.