Former Disney starlet Anneliese van der Pol has hit back at JoJo Siwa after the latter made disparaging comments about van der Pol’s career trajectory.
Support poured in for the actress when she posted a TikTok video responding to the 21-year-old Dance Moms graduate’s critique.
Credit: Getty
In the shared TikTok on Saturday, Anneliese, 39, films herself turning away from the camera, then looking back provocatively.
Displayed on the screen is a comment by JoJo, targeting the actress over a previous TikTok that mockingly addressed the cancellation of the That’s So Raven spin-off, Raven’s Home.
The comment read: “Six seasons, and now a spin off. I think they’re doing just fine. Also, look at your account… your highest views come from talking about the show/raven as well.”
Van der Pol mockingly mouths words from a viral TikTok phrase, which is also text-displayed mid-screen.
“I was on Disney at like 15, I feel like this is not my biggest issue,” retorted the television personality.
The actress’s fan base lauded her reply and chastised JoJo for what appeared to be unprovoked aggression.
A comment highlighted JoJo’s lack of familiarity with That’s So Raven, suggesting her Disney era could not match it.
Others pointed out JoJo’s apparent penchant for self-sabotage this year.
One user mentioned, “Y’all remember when JoJo said she doesn’t comment or get involved with things that don’t involve her.”
An admirer affirmed, “Please Chelsea will always be an icon !!!” referencing Anneliese’s character on That’s So Raven.
JoJo made her remark following Anneliese’s TikTok, which captured her stifled laughter concerning the September 2023 termination of Raven’s Home after six successful seasons.
Despite many fans enjoying the original video, the So You Think You Can Dance judge seized the moment to poke at Anneliese’s claimed dependency on the program.
Anneliese played a leading role in That’s So Raven alongside Raven-Symone, 38, from 2003 to 2007.
The channel later endorsed a sequel, Raven’s Home, in which she participated until her departure after the fourth season.
Look at your account… your highest views come from talking about the show/raven as well.”
JoJo Siwa
In August of 2023, Annaliese divulged that her Disney departure was not voluntary, following which she frequently criticized the children’s network on her media channels.
The specifics behind her release from the series were not disclosed by the TV star herself.
JoJo’s career took flight subsequent to her participation on Dance Moms, as a member of the elite troupe led by the infamous Abby Lee Miller.
She and her mother, Jessalynn, 49, exited the Lifetime show towards the end of its sixth season, with a fresh contract with Nickelodeon shortly thereafter.
Recently, JoJo and several of her Dance Moms alumni, along with their mothers, reconvened for a reunion special.
Subsequent to the special’s airing, the Karma songwriter faced backlash from viewers for her commendation of Abby, 58, whose harsh treatment towards their dancers and mothers was a central theme on the show.
JoJo, despite criticism, has repeatedly voiced her continued backing for Abby, irrespective of the rigorous instruction and frequent scolding she dispensed on camera.