How Jojo Siwa Went From 'Dance Mom' Star to Worldwide Sensation

Photo credit: Noam Galai - Getty Images
Photo credit: Noam Galai - Getty Images

From Woman's Day

If you haven’t heard of Jojo Siwa yet, it’s likely your kids have. The Dance Moms star-turned- Youtube sensation has burst onto the scene as a rainbow- and glitter-wearing teen, capturing the hearts of young people across the globe. As a testament to her widespread fame, she’s met celebs like Elton John and Kim Kardashian West and, at just 16, is worth an estimated $12 million. Plus, with Dance Moms making its triumphant return for season 8, there's a chance that Jojo might make an appearance to mentor the new cast. As she skyrockets to major fame, one thing’s for sure: This peppy teen never forgets where she got her start.

Who is Jojo Siwa?

Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Jojo made her debut on the second season of Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition in 2013. Despite placing fifth in the competition, she was later recruited by Abby Lee Miller to guest star on Dance Moms and vie for a permanent spot on the team. A precocious seasoned performer with a perfectly placed bow, Jojo immediately set herself apart from the rest of the team.

Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin - Getty Images
Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin - Getty Images

How did Jojo become famous?

Jojo’s wish to be FAMOUS (as previously stated in her bio for Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition) has certainly become true over the last few years. The teen sensation has more than 9 million subscribers on YouTube and over 8 million followers on Instagram. She quickly rose to widespread popularity at age 13 after releasing the song "Boomerang," which has a music video with over 700 million views online.

The talented young star has won and performed at several the Kids Choice Awards, and was named the 2018 Breakout Artist of the Year by Vivid Seats.

Jojo is committed to delivering authentic, family-friendly content that parents can feel good about their kids watching. With a fanbase made primarily of kids ages 4 to 13, even her songs convey messages of self-confidence and strength. She embraces her youth and prides herself on being able to “make other people happy,” according to a recent segment on Today, and it's this mindset that has contributed largely to her huge fame.

How much is Jojo Siwa worth?

Thanks to her popular vlogs, line of oversized hair bows sold at Claire’s, and partnership with Nickelodeon, Jojo is currently the most lucrative of any of the former Dance Moms stars, bringing in roughly $12 million - far surpassing the new worth of Abby Lee Miller, with whom Jojo still has a good relationship. As she continues to create more videos, songs, and experiences for her young fans to enjoy, that number will only grow. Jojo even has product lines at Walmart and Target, each stamped with her signature over-the-top rainbow colors.

Shop Jojo’s colorful collections:

What’s next for Jojo Siwa?

Jojo is voicing Jay in the new Angry Birds 2 movie, and recently embarked on her very first concert tour. The D.R.E.A.M tour kicked off just before her 16th birthday and is set to bring Jojo to 70 cities in states across the country and Canada.

('You Might Also Like',)