For the bigger picture and full context, make sure you read our main guide on Brooke Aldc: From Dance Mom to Content Creator.
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For Brooke and Paige Hyland, the glitz and glamour of Dance Moms masked a deeper reality: a childhood spent under immense pressure and, ultimately, emotional distress. Years after leaving the show, the sisters are still processing the experience, demonstrating that the impact of reality TV can extend far beyond the screen.
At a glance:
- The Hyland sisters' sudden departure from Dance Moms in 2014 stemmed from an explosive fight involving their mother, Kelly, and Abby Lee Miller, marking a definitive end to their competitive dance careers.
- Despite forging new paths, the trauma of the show, including alleged emotional distress and bullying, continues to be a topic of discussion and processing for Brooke and Paige.
- The sisters' recent reunion with other Dance Moms cast members highlighted the ongoing emotional complexities and varying levels of healing experienced by the group.
- While forging their own path, they faced unexpected social media dramas and public scrutiny.
- Understanding the Hyland sisters' journey provides valuable insight into the lasting effects of reality TV on young participants.
The Explosive Exit: More Than Just a Fight
Brooke and Paige Hyland's journey on Dance Moms abruptly ended in 2014 following a heated argument between their mother, Kelly, and Abby Lee Miller. This wasn't just a simple disagreement; it was the culmination of years of alleged emotional distress and a "domineering and often bullying and insulting leadership style" from Abby, according to a lawsuit filed by the Hylands (which was ultimately dismissed due to lack of "evidence").
This exit had a profound impact. "We started dancing when we were 2 years old," Brooke revealed. "That fight happened, and then we never danced again." It wasn't just the end of their time on the show; it marked the end of their competitive dance careers, a significant shift for two girls who had dedicated their lives to the art.
Shifting Focus: From Dance to New Horizons
Following their departure from Dance Moms, both Brooke and Paige prioritized their education and personal growth. Brooke graduated from Franklin Regional High School and went on to earn degrees in Marketing and Management Information Systems from Ohio University. She worked in influencer relations before transitioning to a career as a content creator. Read Brooke's surprising career shift.
Paige pursued her education at West Virginia University, graduating in May 2023. She has since embraced a career as a model and influencer, often traveling and sharing her experiences with her followers. This shift was not just a change in career paths; it was a conscious decision to take control of their lives and narratives after years under the intense scrutiny of reality television.
Lingering Trauma: Acknowledging the Past
Despite their success outside of dance, the impact of Dance Moms lingers. The show significantly affected each of the girl’s perception of themselves and the world around them. They participated in the Dance Moms reunion, which was the first time they faced their “replacement” Kalani in ten years.
The emotional toll of the show became evident during the Dance Moms reunion. Chloe Lukasiak, for instance, shared that Abby's harsh words had stayed with her for years, impacting her self-esteem. "I thought I wasn't enough, like, in every single way," she confessed. Kelly Hyland, their mother, also expressed guilt, fearing she had ended her daughters' careers due to her outburst. This illustrates the deep-seated emotional scars left by the show's demanding and often toxic environment.
Navigating the Narrative: Editing and Portrayal
One challenge both Brooke and Paige faced was the way they were portrayed on the show. Brooke mentioned that she was meant to play a "grumpy teenager". This discrepancy between their real personalities and the characters they were forced to embody added another layer of complexity to their experience. It highlights the manipulative nature of reality television and the potential for producers to shape narratives to create drama, often at the expense of the participants' well-being.
Social Media Scrutiny: The Aftermath of Fame
Even after leaving the show, Brooke and Paige continued to navigate the challenges of fame, particularly on social media. Brooke experienced some "little social media drama" with JoJo Siwa, highlighting the complexities of online interactions and the difficulty of escaping the shadow of Dance Moms. This incident underscores the ongoing pressure these young women face, even years after leaving the show, to manage their public image and respond to online criticism.
Impactful Departures: The Aftermath
The Hyland sisters' departure reverberated throughout Dance Moms. Kelly felt guilty that her actions lead to the girls no longer dancing, and would have handled the situation differently if she could. Brooke and Paige, however, were grateful to have a normal high school experience. The National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline is 1-800-950-6264 (NAMI) and provides information and referral services; is an association of mental health professionals from more than 25 countries who support efforts to reduce harm in therapy. The is 1-800-273-8255. Other international suicide helplines can be found at . which provides help and suicide-prevention resources for LGBTQ youth, is 1-866-488-7386. The helpline is 1-800-931-2237; for 24/7 crisis support, text “NEDA” to 741741.
Practical Playbook: Forging Your Own Path After a Difficult Experience
Here is a practical playbook, inspired by Brooke and Paige's journey, for navigating life after a difficult or traumatic experience, especially one that was highly public:
- Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings: Don't dismiss or minimize the impact of the experience. Allow yourself to feel the emotions that arise, whether it's anger, sadness, or confusion.
- Seek Professional Support: Therapy or counseling can provide a safe space to process your experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Set Boundaries: Define what you are and aren't comfortable discussing publicly. It's okay to protect your privacy and limit what you share with others.
- Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize activities that promote your well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness, or spending time with loved ones.
- Reclaim Your Narrative: Take control of how your story is told. Focus on your accomplishments, passions, and future goals.
- Connect with Others: Build a strong support system of friends, family, or mentors who understand and validate your experiences.
- Find Your Purpose: Explore new interests and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Discovering your passions can help you move forward and create a meaningful life.
- Learn from the past: Understand the patterns in your life and how they contribute to the issues.
Quick Answers: Common Questions About Brooke and Paige's Journey
- Q: Did Brooke and Paige ever consider returning to dance?
- A: While they haven't returned to competitive dance, they have both found alternative ways to express their creativity and passion through content creation and modeling.
- Q: How did leaving Dance Moms affect their relationship with other cast members?
- A: Their relationships with other cast members have evolved over time, with some friendships remaining strong while others have faded. The Dance Moms reunion allowed them to reconnect and address past issues.
- Q: What advice would they give to young people considering reality TV?
- A: Based on their experiences, they would likely advise young people to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of reality TV, to protect their mental health, and to have a strong support system in place.
- Q: How did the show affect their mental health?
- A: The show had a significant impact on the mental health of the girls involved.
Take Action: Reclaiming Your Story
Brooke and Paige Hyland's story is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of reality TV on young lives. Their journey demonstrates the importance of acknowledging trauma, prioritizing mental health, and reclaiming one's narrative. By understanding their experiences, we can gain valuable insights into the complexities of fame, the power of resilience, and the importance of supporting young people in navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry.
