Dance Moms

10 Best Episodes of Dance Moms

Dance Moms is a hit show that first aired in 2011 on Lifetime. It follows the Abby Lee Dance Company's Junior Elite Competition Team of young girls aged 11–14 years old as they compete for awards. It has been nine seasons long and has become a popular show worldwide. So, which episodes should you watch? Here is a ranking of the best episodes of Dance Moms ranked.

The episode "JoJo Steals the Show" from season 5 is considered one of the show's best episodes. In this episode, Abby Lee Miller has the girls competing against a rival dance team from California. Jojo is able to step in and help the team with a solo performance at the last minute, showing off her talents and winning the competition for the team. This episode has some of the best performances from the show, and is a great watch.

The season 6 episode "No More Crybabies" is another fan favorite. This episode is full of drama and tension, as Abby Lee Miller attempts to teach the girls a lesson in discipline. The girls struggle with their emotions and the pressure of performing, leading to an explosive confrontation. This episode is a must-watch for any fan of Dance Moms.

Written by Sophie and last updated on feb 13, 2023.

PS: The following content contains spoilers!

PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!

Advertisement
Dance Moms - S3E19

#15 - The Mother of All Specials (Season 3 - Episode 19)

This Dance Moms special is one that viewers won't want to miss. In this one-hour episode, Abby Lee Miller introduces us to her mother and shares the amazing bond and history that they have. Abby's usual unfiltered wry humor will also be on full display as she gives her opinion on the Dance Moms' mothering skills. With a revelation that is sure to leave viewers awestruck, this is the perfect Mother's Day Special.

Abby Lee Miller and her mother have a bond that is sure to draw viewers in. With Abby's signature wit and humor, viewers will get an insightful look into motherhood and the dance moms’ parenting skills. This special is sure to be full of surprises and laughter, making it the perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day. With a revelation that will leave viewers awestruck, this is sure to be an episode that no one will want to miss.

The episode was rated 7.92 from 26 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E27

#14 - Chatter, Part 2 (Season 3 - Episode 27)

Advertisement

The second part of the all-new Dance Moms Chatter talk show is an interactive experience that allows viewers to get in on the fun. Hosts Abby Lee Miller, Melissa, Nadine Rajabi and Alec Mapa dish the dirt on the hit show while giving their snarky commentary. Fans can tweet along with the hashtag #DanceMoms for a chance to see their posts live.

The episode promises to be an entertaining and educational experience for viewers who are fans of the show. Not only will fans get the behind the scenes dirt, but they will also learn more about the cast members and the host celebrities. Viewers will also be able to interact with the show by tweeting along with the hashtag #DanceMoms.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 14 votes.

Dance Moms - S8E4

#13 - Choose Wisely (Season 8 - Episode 4)

In the Dance Moms episode, "Choose Wisely," Abby makes a surprising announcement that one of the dancers will have to be sent home. This creates tension in the studio and the kids are scared that one wrong move could lead to their packing their bags. Stacey and Tricia go head-to-head when Abby tasks them with picking their own duet partners. Brady, Abby's favorite dancer, is a source of contention between the two, leading to a heated debate over who should partner with him.

The episode is filled with anxiety and drama as the dancers try to choose the best partner for their duets. Everyone is determined to make the right decision and prove to Abby that they are ready for the next level. The stakes are high, and the dancers are desperate to make the right call so they can stay in the competition. It's a nerve-wracking situation and the young dancers must choose wisely if they want to remain in the competition.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 43 votes.

Dance Moms - S8E3

#12 - The Broadway Brat (Season 8 - Episode 3)

Advertisement

In the episode "The Broadway Brat" of Dance Moms, Abby is determined to challenge her team with her most serious group dance yet. She takes a chance and casts Lilly as the lead for the first time in her ALDC career. The stakes are high, but Abby is confident in the team's ability to rise to the challenge. However, when GiaNina complains about her choreography, Abby's expectations are quickly forgotten and she unleashes her wrath on the Broadway veteran.

This is an important episode for the team, as this is the first time Lilly will be performing as the lead. With the pressure on, GiaNina's criticism of Abby's choreography causes the coach to become frustrated and lash out. Ultimately, this episode is all about Abby's expectations of her team and her ability to remain calm and composed to ensure they perform at their best. As the team prepares for the performance, the tension and pressure builds, leading up to the unforgettable performance.

The episode was rated 7.93 from 45 votes.

Dance Moms - S2E13

#11 - Abbygeddon (Season 2 - Episode 13)

The second season of Dance Moms ended with a bang in the episode Abbygeddon. Abby's dancers competed fiercely in the regionals, battling it out for the coveted Joffrey Ballet School scholarship. The added challenge of competing against the Candy Apples made it a nail-biting experience for all involved.

The episode was filled with drama as the dancers fought to prove themselves on the stage. The competition was fierce and the stakes were high, with everything at stake in this crucial performance. The pressure was on as Abby's dancers had to make a lasting impression in order to secure the scholarship. In the end, only one dancer could win the prize and the suspense was palpable as the judges deliberated.

The episode was rated 7.96 from 83 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E15

#10 - The Politics of Dancing (Season 3 - Episode 15)

Advertisement

This episode of Dance Moms takes a political twist as Abby assigns the girls dances inspired by the current state of American politics. Maddie and Chloe face off in a head-to-head competition, and Abby has the Abby Lee Dance Company vote on who gave the best performance. With Mackenzie forced to sit on the sidelines due to an injury, Asia takes over her coveted spot on the team.

The episode is sure to be an interesting one, as the girls explore the themes of politics and democracy in the context of dance. With the ALDC voting on the best performance, the competition is sure to be fierce and thrilling. Will Maddie and Chloe be able to rise above the politics of dancing, or will the new powerhouse, Asia, take the spotlight? Tune in to find out!

The episode was rated 7.98 from 57 votes.

Dance Moms - S2E16

#9 - I Know What You Did Last Competition (Season 2 - Episode 16)

The controversial hit show Dance Moms is back with its episode “I Know What You Did Last Competition”. This episode revolves around the cheating scandal Melissa faces and the tension between the Dance Moms as Payton rejoins the competition team. Things are about to get heated!

The episode starts with Kelly’s daughters being put on probation. Meanwhile, Melissa is trying to deal with the cheating scandal and Payton rejoins the competition team, causing tension among the Dance Moms. The issue of cheating has always been a contentious one on the show, and this time it is no different. Melissa’s reputation is on the line, as the other Dance Moms question her integrity. Will her reputation be able to survive the cheating scandal?

The episode was rated 7.99 from 70 votes.

Dance Moms - S8E8

#8 - A Team On Trial (Season 8 - Episode 8)

Advertisement

In this episode of Dance Moms, the team's losing streak has taken its toll on the girls and the team dynamic. This has caused a lot of fighting between the members. To make matters worse, Abby has decided to give a mini a big shot at joining the team and has created a duet with GiaNina and Elliana which has caused an all-out war between two of the moms.

The team is on the brink of breaking apart and the team dance is in serious jeopardy. The moms are locked in a battle and it's up to Abby to pull everyone together in order to save the team. With tensions high, the girls will have to rely on Abby's guidance to help them through this difficult time and come together as a team.

The episode was rated 8.00 from 35 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E26

#7 - Chatter, Part 1 (Season 3 - Episode 26)

This week on Dance Moms, the all-new Chatter talk show features an exciting lineup of special guests. Dance Moms Christi, Kelly, and Patsy will join celebrity blogger Nadine Rajabi and comedian Lisa Arch to provide snarky commentary about past events. Fans can join in on the conversation by tweeting along with #DanceMoms for a chance to have their posts featured live on the show. It's sure to be an entertaining evening of gossip and discussion.

The Dance Moms Chatter talk show is a great way for fans to get a behind-the-scenes look at the show. The special guests will provide a unique perspective on what goes on behind the scenes and provide some insight into the lives of the Dance Moms. It's sure to be a fun and informative evening of chatter and gossip. So don't miss out, tune in this week and join in the conversation.

The episode was rated 8.00 from 11 votes.

Dance Moms - S2E20

#6 - Guess Who's Back? (Season 2 - Episode 20)

Advertisement

The Abby Lee Dance Company is completely shocked when Jill and Kendall come crawling back. In the midst of the surprise, Maddie is also awarded a coveted acting role on the show "Drop Dead Diva". This causes jealousy among the other moms, who are now pitted against each other in competition.

Nia manages to wow the crowd with a solo performance, while Paige's dance career is threatened by a serious injury. The episode is a dramatic display of emotions, as the moms struggle to stay on top while the girls fight for their spot in the spotlight. It's a heart wrenching battle of wills, as the moms must decide what's best for their children, and the girls must decide if they're ready to take on the challenges of the dance world.

The episode was rated 8.02 from 66 votes.

Dance Moms - S5E33

#5 - Slumber Party! (Season 5 - Episode 33)

In Dance Moms' Slumber Party special, Maddie takes viewers behind the scenes to experience the fun and excitement of the girls' slumber party. The girls share their thoughts on celebrity crushes, makeup tips, and which of them take the longest to get ready. For a lighthearted and fun episode, the girls open up and share secrets with the audience.

The episode kicks off with the girls talking about their favorite celebrities. They reveal their celebrity crushes and the silly things they've done to get their attention. Next, the girls share their make up tips and tricks, from their favorite products to the looks that make them feel the most confident. Then, they move on to the topic of who takes the longest to get ready. They all have their own unique beauty routines and they share their stories with the audience.

At the end of the episode, the girls come together to discuss their favorite memories of the Dance Moms experience. They share stories about the times when they stayed up late for practices and competitions, as well as the fun moments they shared on the show. It's a very special episode that allows viewers to get up close and personal with the girls.

The episode was rated 8.17 from 23 votes.

Dance Moms - S8E14

#4 - The Return of Studio 19 (Season 8 - Episode 14)

Advertisement

The episode "The Return of Studio 19" of Dance Moms follows GiaNina and Sarah as they compete for a solo spot at nationals. The team also performs a unique group routine, which presents a challenge for all of the dancers. As the competition progresses, tension between the moms escalates, eventually leading to a very heated confrontation. This is the final straw for Abby, who loses her composure and throws a fit.

The competition only intensifies the existing tension between GiaNina and Sarah, who are both competing for a solo spot at nationals. With two of their best dancers vying for the same spot, the team is forced to confront their competitive nature and their differences. Meanwhile, the moms become increasingly hostile towards each other, culminating in a heated argument that Abby is unable to contain. At the end of the episode, Abby’s temper is put to the test and she is unable to maintain her composure, leading to an all-out meltdown.

The episode was rated 8.26 from 35 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E21

#3 - Tell All, Part 2 (Season 3 - Episode 21)

Dance Moms' Tell All, Part 2 is the dramatic conclusion to the season 3 of the show. Not only does Kristie Ray come to Abby's defense, but Jackie and her daughter Sophia don't get off well with Melissa either. Things come to a head between Abby and Cathy, as Abby has still not forgiven Cathy for hitting her with her purse.

The episode is sure to be full of drama, as the tension between Abby and Cathy is sure to come to a head. With Kristie Ray and Jackie and her daughter Sophia also in the mix, it's sure to be an explosive episode. It's sure to be an interesting show for fans of the show, as all the simmering tensions of the season come to a head in the season finale.

The episode was rated 8.38 from 16 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E39

#2 - Dance Moms Holiday Special: Twas the Fight Before Christmas (Season 3 - Episode 39)

Advertisement

The Dance Moms Holiday Special: Twas the Fight Before Christmas promises to be a wild ride! Abby Lee Miller is full of festive surprises for the moms, the dads, and the girls. The girls will be dancing to Christmas songs, but the winter gloves will definitely come off as Abby and the moms are sure to trade insults. The dads also make surprise appearances adding to the tension.

It's the season of giving, and this Dance Moms special is sure to surprise fans. The special is sure to be full of drama and tension, as viewers are eager to see what Abby has in store for the cast. Will the girls be able to perform their Christmas routines without any issues? Will the parents get into any arguments? The holiday special is sure to keep viewers entertained as they watch all the action unfold.

The episode was rated 8.65 from 17 votes.

Dance Moms - S3E38

#1 - Dance Moms Reunion: Hurricane Abby (Season 3 - Episode 38)

The cast of "Dance Moms" Season 3 are coming back together for the reunion special "Dance Moms Reunion: Hurricane Abby". This reunion will be an opportunity to reflect on all the successes and hardships the season brought. While viewers may think that all the old grudges have been settled, Abby Lee Dance Company girls are ready to prove otherwise. As a special treat, the girls will be putting on their favorite dance routines from the season.

The reunion special is sure to be filled with drama and emotion. With the Abby Lee Dance Company girls performing some of their favorite routines, viewers will get to experience the hard work and dedication that went into the season. As the reunion progresses, viewers will get to see if grudges have been settled and if the cast has been able to put their differences aside. While the reunion is sure to be an intense one, it will be a great chance to relive the highlights of the season.

The episode was rated 9.09 from 11 votes.

Search for TV shows...

About Series with Sophie

Welcome to our community!

We are a community of women who are passionate about our favorite series and want to share that passion with others.

Our mission is to create a space where women can discover new content, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in meaningful discussions about the series we love.

We believe that everyone should have access to reliable and trustworthy information about their favorite shows, and we strive to be the premier destination for women seeking that information. Whether you're looking for recaps, fan theories, or just want to connect with other fans, we've got you covered.

So join us and be a part of our growing community of series enthusiasts!