Maddie Ziegler, the celebrated dancer and actress who rose to fame on Dance Moms and captivated audiences in Sia's music videos, has navigated her romantic life under the constant glare of the public eye. From early on-screen connections to significant long-term relationships with fellow creatives, Ziegler's romantic journey has evolved alongside her burgeoning career, often reflecting the challenges and joys of young love in the spotlight. Her relationships have been a subject of public interest, showcasing her growth from a child star to a young woman.
One of Maddie Ziegler's earliest public "relationships" was with fellow dancer Gino Cosculluela in 2014. Their connection was primarily showcased during their time on Dance Moms, where they were paired for a duet and shared an on-screen kiss. This brief interaction, though not a formal relationship, garnered significant attention and even some controversy due to comments made by Gino later. The situation highlighted the unique pressures of growing up and experiencing first affections on reality television.
As Ziegler transitioned from Dance Moms to a global icon, her first significant public relationship began with Australian Instagram personality Jack Kelly. The couple started dating in October 2016, and their romance quickly became a favorite among fans. They frequently shared affectionate posts on social media, showcasing their young love through trips to Disneyland, casual beach days, and other outings.
Their relationship was often characterized by its sweetness and the challenges of long-distance, as Kelly resided in Australia while Ziegler's career kept her primarily in the United States. Despite the distance, they made their relationship work for a considerable period, celebrating their first anniversary in January 2018. Ziegler often spoke fondly of Kelly in interviews, emphasizing the supportive nature of their bond.
However, after approximately 18 months of dating, Maddie Ziegler and Jack Kelly reportedly split in August 2018. Sources close to the couple indicated that the long distance and their demanding schedules made it increasingly difficult to maintain the relationship. While the breakup was amicable, it marked the end of Ziegler's first high-profile romance.
Following her split from Kelly, Ziegler entered a more private phase of her dating life before her next significant relationship with musician Eddie Benjamin. The two reportedly began dating in late 2019, though they kept their romance relatively low-key for several months before going public. Their relationship was officially confirmed in early 2020, and they quickly became a beloved Gen Z couple.
Maddie and Eddie's relationship was notable for their shared creative pursuits and mutual support. Benjamin, an Australian singer-songwriter, often collaborated with Ziegler, including her starring in his music video for "Speechless" in April 2021. They frequently expressed their admiration for each other, with Ziegler often calling Benjamin her "best friend" and praising his talent and humor. They made their red carpet debut in August 2022, showcasing their strong bond.
Ziegler had previously stated she never expected to date someone in the entertainment industry, but her connection with Benjamin proved to be an exception. She often spoke about how they inspired each other and how supportive he was of her career. The couple was known for their playful social media presence, sharing candid moments and showcasing their deep affection.
Despite their seemingly strong connection, Maddie Ziegler and Eddie Benjamin amicably split in February 2023, after more than three years together. While the exact reasons for their breakup were not extensively detailed, reports suggested a natural evolution and mutual decision. Their separation marked the end of a significant chapter in Ziegler's romantic history.
Most recently, Maddie Ziegler has been linked to music producer Kid Culture, whose real name is Daniel Hackett. Romance rumors first sparked in early June 2024, after Ziegler posted a series of snaps from his birthday celebration on Instagram, including photos of them kissing. This "soft launch" on social media indicated a new romantic chapter for the dancer.
Kid Culture is a notable figure in the music industry, having collaborated with artists like Justin Bieber and Stevie Wonder, and earning a Grammy nomination. While details about how they met and the full extent of their relationship are still emerging, Ziegler's public acknowledgment suggests a new and developing romance. Her journey through love, from early on-screen moments to long-term partnerships and new beginnings, continues to captivate her audience, reflecting her personal growth and evolving preferences in relationships.