Maddie Ziegler’s mother, Melissa Gisoni Bio: Age, Husband, Children, Net Worth, Height, Dance Moms, Daughters

A dedicated advocate for her daughters’ careers at the Abby Lee Dance Company (ALDC), she gained attention for her supportive yet pragmatic approach, navigating the competitive dance world and her daughters’ rise to fame.

Profile

• Full Name: Melissa Ann Ziegler Gisoni
• Stage Name: Melissa Gisoni
• Born: 13, June 1968
• Age: 57 years old
• Birthplace: New York, New York, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Reality Television Personality, Internet Influencer, Podcast Host
• Height: 1.63m
• Parents: Mr. Ziegler and Mrs. Ziegler
• Siblings: Renee Burkey
• Spouse: Kurt Ziegler (m. 1989–2011), Greg Gisoni (m. 2013)
• Boyfriends: None
• Children: Maddie Ziegler, Mackenzie Ziegler
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $1 million

Early Life and Education

Melissa Ann Ziegler Gisoni was born on June 13, 1968, in New York, New York, to Mr. and Mrs. Ziegler.

She grew up with one sister, Renee Burkey, in a family that later settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Melissa was involved in dance during her childhood, training at a local studio, but did not pursue it professionally, instead focusing on her family and supporting her daughters’ dance careers.

She graduated from high school in Pittsburgh but did not attend college, choosing to work and raise her family.

Her ethnicity is Caucasian, and she identifies as Christian, occasionally referencing her faith in social media posts.

Career

Melissa Gisoni began her public career in 2011 as a cast member of Dance Moms, joining the show to support her daughters, Maddie and Mackenzie, who were standout dancers at the ALDC under Abby Lee Miller.

Known for her calm demeanor and strategic approach to navigating Miller’s demanding environment, Melissa often ensured her daughters received prominent roles, which sparked tensions with other parents, notably Christi Lukasiak.

Maddie’s success as Miller’s “top girl” and Mackenzie’s growth as a dancer and singer elevated the family’s profile, with Melissa managing their schedules and opportunities, including Maddie’s iconic role in Sia’s Chandelier music video in 2014.

After leaving Dance Moms in 2016 to focus on her daughters’ expanding careers, Melissa transitioned into a broader entertainment role.

She supported Maddie’s acting pursuits in films like The Book of Henry (2017) and Mackenzie’s music career, including her album Mack Z.

In 2022, she joined the podcast Dear Dance Mom… with Holly Frazier, Kelly Hyland, and Jill Vertes, sharing reflections on their Dance Moms experiences and parenting insights, which has resonated with fans.

Melissa also maintains a significant social media presence, with over 3.6 million Instagram followers, collaborating with brands like FabFitFun and promoting family-oriented content.

Her appearance in Dance Moms: The Reunion in 2024 highlighted her pride in her daughters’ achievements and her role in their success.

Melissa’s current endeavors focus on her podcast and social media influence, where she engages fans with updates on her family and lifestyle.

She has also ventured into philanthropy, supporting causes like the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she has raised funds in memory of her stepfather.

Her management of Maddie and Mackenzie’s careers, from dance to Hollywood, underscores her business acumen, while her podcasting role keeps her connected to the Dance Moms community.

Melissa’s legacy lies in her ability to balance motherhood with guiding her daughters to global stardom, maintaining a relatable and approachable public image.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @melissagisoni
• Facebook Handle: Melissa Gisoni
• Twitter Handle: @MelissaGisoni

Personal Life

Melissa Ann Ziegler Gisoni married Kurt Ziegler in 1989, and they had two daughters, Maddie and Mackenzie.

The couple divorced in 2011, with Melissa citing the stress of Dance Moms as a factor.

She married Greg Gisoni, a vice president at Westinghouse Electric Company, in 2013, and they reside in Los Angeles, California, with Greg’s children from a previous marriage, Matthew and Michele.

Melissa is close with her sister, Renee Burkey, and has been a vocal supporter of her daughters’ mental health, particularly Maddie’s struggles with anxiety from fame.

Net Worth

Melissa Ann Ziegler Gisoni has an estimated net worth of $1 million.

Her wealth primarily comes from her Dance Moms appearances from 2011 to 2016, which provided significant earnings, and her role in managing Maddie and Mackenzie’s lucrative careers in dance, acting, and music.