Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride: The Dance Moms Edition
The phrase "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" is a common saying that expresses a feeling of being unlucky in love. But on Dance Moms, the saying took on a whole new meaning, becoming a running gag for the show's most devoted viewers.
The Bridesmaids:
For those unfamiliar with Dance Moms, the show revolved around a group of young dancers and their demanding moms, all vying for a chance to become the next big star in the world of competitive dance. While the moms battled it out over studio space, choreographic control, and even the occasional outfit choice, the daughters were left to deal with the pressure of the spotlight and the constant criticism from their mothers and Abby Lee Miller, the studio's owner and head choreographer.
One of the show's most prominent storylines involved the ever-present, yet never-ending, cycle of bridesmaid duties. Several of the dancers, like Maddie Ziegler and Chloe Lukasiak, were frequently cast as bridesmaids in their teammates' wedding-themed dances. While they were always graceful and talented, their constant bridesmaid roles became a source of amusement for fans, especially considering their mothers' fierce rivalry.
The Reasons Behind the Running Gag:
So why did the "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" theme resonate so strongly with Dance Moms viewers?
- Humor: The repeated bridesmaid roles were undeniably comedic, especially considering the show's focus on competition and the mothers' relentless desire for their daughters to be the best.
- Subtext: The bridesmaid theme also carried a subtle subtext. While the dancers were always chosen for their talent and ability, it was clear that Abby Lee Miller sometimes favored certain dancers, leading to a perception that some dancers were always destined to play the supporting role.
- Fan Engagement: The repeated bridesmaid roles became a point of discussion and shared enjoyment among fans, who often created memes and online communities dedicated to this recurring motif.
The Legacy of the Bridesmaids:
Even though Dance Moms has come to an end, the legacy of the bridesmaid storyline continues to live on. The constant repetition and the unspoken implications of the theme have cemented the show's place in pop culture, becoming a reminder of the show's humor, drama, and the enduring power of fan engagement.
