Dancing with the Stars: A Family Affair
When it comes to “Dancing with the Stars,” talent seems to run in the Arnold family. Lindsay Arnold, a former professional dancer on the show, recently shared an adorable moment that captures the magic of this family legacy. Her young daughters, Sage (4) and June (2), were spotted mimicking the dance moves performed by their aunt Rylee Arnold and her celebrity partner Scott Hoying from Pentatonix during week two of the competition. This heartwarming scene not only showcases the genuine family support behind the scenes but also highlights how dance connects generations within this talented family.
Lindsay couldn’t contain her pride as she watched her children attempt to follow the challenging cha-cha routine that Rylee and Scott performed to “Blue (Da Ba Dee)” by Eiffel 65. “Nothing is cuter than watching these girlies copying their auntie,” Lindsay wrote on her Instagram Story, adding that her daughter Sage correctly observed how difficult the dance was. But what really stood out was Lindsay’s genuine praise for Scott Hoying’s rapid improvement in the competition. She commended the Pentatonix star on his content, performance, and technique—areas that professional dancers know require significant dedication to master. The pair earned a respectable 18 out of 30 for their performance and successfully avoided elimination, securing their spot in week three of the competition.
The chemistry between Rylee and Scott appears to be a significant factor in their success. In an interview with Good Housekeeping, 20-year-old Rylee spoke highly of her partner’s natural abilities, noting that his musical background has proven advantageous on the dance floor. “What I really like about Scott is he’s so musically inclined, and he can move!” she explained, highlighting his good rhythm and fierce performance quality. With enthusiasm, she also expressed her desire to incorporate Pentatonix music into one of their future routines—a creative choice that would certainly resonate with fans of both the dance competition and the acclaimed a cappella group. This strategic thinking demonstrates Rylee’s understanding of how to maximize their potential in the competition.
Lindsay’s journey with the show represents the delicate balance many professional performers face between career ambitions and family priorities. After serving as a pro dancer on “Dancing with the Stars” from 2013 until August 2022, Lindsay made the difficult decision to step back from the spotlight to focus on motherhood and family life. In her heartfelt announcement on Instagram, she explained the logistical challenges that made continuing with the show increasingly difficult: “This has been one of the hardest decisions to make but ultimately, I have chosen what I feel is best for myself and my family.” The reality of having to relocate to Los Angeles with her daughter Sage while leaving behind her husband Samuel Lightner Cusick, who works full-time in Utah, proved to be a sacrifice she was no longer willing to make. This personal choice resonates with many working parents who face similar difficult decisions regarding career and family balance.
Despite no longer competing herself, Lindsay has seamlessly transitioned into being her sister’s biggest cheerleader, finding unexpected joy in this new role. During a July 2024 interview on “The Squeeze Podcast,” she addressed questions about whether it was difficult to watch the show now that her younger sister has taken the stage. Her response revealed a beautiful perspective on this professional passing of the torch: “It’s literally like I’m watching myself 12 years ago. I feel everything more for Riley than I ever did for myself. I’m more nervous for Riley than I ever was for myself. I’m more excited for her. I’m more proud.” This sentiment captures the unique dynamic of watching a loved one follow in your footsteps—experiencing both the nostalgia of your own journey and the fresh excitement of witnessing theirs unfold.
What makes this family story particularly touching is how Lindsay has found peace with her decision to step away from the spotlight while still maintaining a connection to the show that was such a significant part of her identity. “It’s still in my life through her in a way. It makes it easier for me to want to be a fan,” Lindsay explained. There’s a genuine contentment in her words as she embraces this new chapter: “I just want to watch. I just want to cheer you on. This is just the start for her and it’s so cool to see that.” This perspective highlights how our relationships with our passions can evolve over time—from active participation to mentorship and supportive observation. For the Arnold sisters, dancing isn’t just a profession but a family bond that continues to strengthen across different stages of life and career. As Rylee continues her journey on “Dancing with the Stars” with Scott Hoying, she carries not just her own dreams but also the loving support of a sister who understands exactly what it takes to shine on that ballroom floor.
