'Dance Moms' star Abby Lee Miller posted an Instagram photo on Sunday claiming she will be leaving the show after being treated poorly by producers and executives. The post reads:
"The majority of children that follow me may be fast asleep, however now is the critical time to make the following statement: I WILL NO LONGER TAKE PART IN DANCE MOMS. FOR THE PAST SIX YEARS/ SEVEN SEASONS I HAVE ASKED, BEGGED, AND EVEN DEMANDED CREATIVE CREDIT FOR ALL THE IDEAS, AWARD WINNING ROUTINES, THEMES, AND COSTUMING - TO NO AVAIL! TODAY, I WAS SO PROUD THAT I WENT AGAINST THE PRODUCER'S IDEA (ONCE AGAIN) TO ENTER A COMMAND PERFORMANCE OF ONE OF MY FAVORITE NUMBERS... "WHERE HAVE ALL THE CHILDREN GONE?" ALONG WITH THREE BEAUTIFUL SOLOS! I don't have a problem working with any kid, I love children and have dedicated my life to making other people's children successful! I JUST HAVE A PROBLEM WITH BEING MANIPULATED, DISRESPECTED, AND USED - DAY IN AND DAY OUT BY MEN WHO NEVER TOOK A DANCE LESSON IN THEIR LIVES AND TREAT WOMEN LIKE DIRT! #dancemoms #season7 #ALDC #aldcalways #newbeginnings #aldcla #alllovedancecourage"
This announcement comes at an interesting time, as Miller pleaded guilty last June to charges of fraud and a violation of currency reporting laws and will face sentencing in early May. While her lawyers are hoping for probation, it appears that spending some time in prison may be in order for Miller.
Miller has been under fire for awhile; "The Maddie Diaries," a memoir, written by Miller's former dancer Maddie Ziegler, was released on March 7th, and though it never mentioned Miller by name, portrayed her in a harsh light.
Lifetime has not released any comments regarding Miller's exit, although it's certainly possible the show will continue without its former star. Stay tuned!