Kalani Hilliker

Kalani Hilliker: From Dance Prodigy to Digital Influencer​

Kalani Brooke Hilliker, born on September 23, 2000, in Mesa, Arizona, is a multifaceted American dancer, actress, model, and digital content creator. Rising to prominence through reality television, she has since expanded her career into various creative domains, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.​

Early Life and Dance Beginnings

Kalani's passion for dance ignited at the tender age of two when her mother, Kira Girard, enrolled her in classes at Dance Connection 2 in Arizona. By five, she was training at Club Dance Studio, and at ten, she commenced formal ballet instruction at the Master Ballet Academy. Her early dedication led to numerous accolades in national dance competitions, including titles at The Dance Awards and Nuvo Nationals .​

Breakthrough in Reality Television

In 2011, Kalani's dance group, AKsquared, won Disney Channel's "Make Your Mark: Ultimate Dance Off," earning a guest appearance on "Shake It Up." Her television career progressed with a role as Baby Bun in ABC Family's "Bunheads" in 2013. That same year, she competed in Lifetime's "Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition," finishing fourth. Her performance caught the attention of Abby Lee Miller, leading to her inclusion in "Dance Moms" from 2014 to 2017, where she became a fan favorite .​

Transition to Acting and Entrepreneurship

Post "Dance Moms," Kalani ventured into acting, starring as Sabrina in the web series "Dirt" (2018–2019). She also appeared in films like "Swiped" and "Breaking Brooklyn." Embracing entrepreneurship, she launched a sock line, "Pretty Feet by Kalani," and collaborated with PromGirl to design a prom dress collection .​

Digital Presence and Advocacy

Kalani has cultivated a substantial online following, sharing lifestyle content on her YouTube channel and engaging with fans on Instagram and TikTok. She utilizes her platform to advocate for mental health awareness, drawing from personal experiences to promote self-care and positivity. In 2024, she introduced her skincare brand, "Kare by Kalani," emphasizing wellness and self-love .​

Personal Life

In August 2024, Kalani announced her engagement to Nathan Goldman during a picturesque vacation in Lake Como, Italy. The couple's relationship has been celebrated by fans and peers alike, marking a joyful chapter in her personal life .​

Kalani Hilliker's journey from a young dance enthusiast to a versatile entertainer and entrepreneur exemplifies her dedication and adaptability. Her continued efforts to inspire and connect with audiences underscore her enduring impact in the digital age.