Kendall Vertes Says Relationship with Her “Dance Moms” Cast Members ‘Got Her Through’ the ‘Vicious Environment’ (Exclusive)

Kendall Vertes Shares Insights on Her Relationship with Former Dance Moms Cast Members

Kendall Vertes, the former reality TV star, reflected on her time on Dance Moms and the bond she shared with her castmates, in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Between 2012 and 2017, Vertes was part of the hit Lifetime show, where she found support and friendship in fellow cast members such as Chloe Lukasiak, JoJo Siwa, Brooke Hyland, Paige Hyland, Brynn Rumfallo, and Kalani Hilliker. These strong connections proved crucial for Vertes as they navigated through the challenges posed by the show’s intense environment, largely influenced by former dance coach Abby Lee Miller.

In reminiscing about her experiences on the show, Vertes, now a 22-year-old senior at James Madison University, highlighted the importance of the camaraderie amongst the cast members. She recalled the fond memories of traveling with the girls every weekend to various locations, creating a close-knit community where they supported each other through thick and thin. Despite the competitive and demanding atmosphere they faced, Vertes found solace in the companionship and unity they shared, describing it as the cornerstone that helped her persevere throughout her time on the show.

One of Vertes’ most cherished memories from her Dance Moms journey was the powerful and emotional performance of the “Suicide Hotline” routine in season 6, episode 29. The performance struck a chord with the audience and resonated deeply with the cast members, evoking tears and genuine emotions amongst them. The impact of their dance transcended the stage, as it led to a real-world response from a suicide hotline organization in California, further reinforcing the profound influence that their artistry had on others.

Vertes expressed her gratitude for the platform that Dance Moms provided, allowing them to not only showcase their talent but also to address important social issues through their performances. The experience reshaped her perspective and instilled in her a sense of purpose, knowing that their art could wield a significant impact and potentially help those in need.

Despite the geographical distance and busy schedules that now separate the cast members, Vertes emphasized the enduring bonds they share. She remains close with many of her former co-stars, making efforts to stay connected and reunite whenever possible. From regular FaceTime calls with JoJo Siwa to planning visits with Chloe Lukasiak and spending time with Brooke and Paige Hyland in Pittsburgh, Vertes values the friendships forged during their time on the show and seeks to nurture those connections, even as they pursue different paths in their lives.

As Vertes looks towards the future, she finds solace in the enduring friendships and memories she made during her time on Dance Moms. Despite the challenges and pressures they faced, the shared experiences and unwavering support from her castmates have left an indelible mark on her journey, underscoring the importance of camaraderie and solidarity in navigating through life’s trials and triumphs.

In conclusion, Kendall Vertes’ reflections on her relationship with her former Dance Moms cast members offer a poignant insight into the enduring bonds forged through shared experiences and mutual support. Their journey on the show was not just about dance and competition; it was about friendship, resilience, and the power of unity in overcoming obstacles and making a meaningful impact, both on and off the stage.