Shake It Up! Then and Now: A Look Back at the Beloved Disney Channel Show
It’s been over a decade since "Shake It Up!" premiered on the Disney Channel, captivating the hearts of young audiences everywhere. The show, which aired from 2010 to 2013, followed the adventures of Rocky Blue and CeCe Jones, two teenage best friends who landed a spot on a local dance show called "Shake It Up, Chicago!" The show’s catchy dance numbers, relatable characters, and lighthearted humor made it a staple of Disney Channel programming. In this article, we’ll take a look back at "Shake It Up!" and see what the stars of the show are up to now.
The Show’s Premise
"Shake It Up!" was created by Chris Thompson and premiered on November 7, 2010. The show revolved around Rocky (Zendaya) and CeCe (Bella Thorne), two young girls from different backgrounds who shared a passion for dance. Rocky, a clumsy and accident-prone teenager, and CeCe, a confident and outgoing cheerleader, were both talented dancers who dreamed of becoming famous. When they auditioned for "Shake It Up, Chicago!" they landed a spot on the show, which showcased local talent performing various styles of dance.
Memorable Characters and Episodes
The show featured a colorful cast of characters, including Rocky and CeCe’s best friend, Deuce (Adam Irigoyen), and their lovable but grumpy boss, Gary Wilde (R. Brandon Johnson). The show’s humor was rooted in the girls’ silly antics, misunderstandings, and mishaps, as well as their relationships with their friends and family.
Some of the most iconic episodes of "Shake It Up!" include "The Boogie in My Shoes," where Rocky and CeCe’s rivalry with a rival dance crew leads to a series of silly mishaps, and "Give It Up," in which the girls must find a way to save the show from being canceled.
The Impact of "Shake It Up!"
"Shake It Up!" was a game-changer for the Disney Channel, helping to establish the network as a leader in children’s entertainment. The show’s success also launched the careers of its young stars, including Zendaya and Bella Thorne, who went on to appear in films and television shows.
The show’s influence can also be seen in the many dance competition shows that followed in its wake, including "Dance Moms" and "So You Think You Can Dance." "Shake It Up!" also inspired a generation of young dancers to pursue their passion for the art form.
Where Are They Now?
So, what are the stars of "Shake It Up!" up to now?
- Zendaya (Rocky Blue) has become a successful actress, starring in films like "Spider-Man: Homecoming" and "Euphoria." She has also become a vocal advocate for social justice and body positivity.
- Bella Thorne (CeCe Jones) has appeared in films like "The Duff" and " Assassination Nation." She has also been open about her struggles with mental health and addiction.
- Adam Irigoyen (Deuce Martinez) has continued to work in television, appearing in shows like "Glee" and "Liv and Maddie."
- R. Brandon Johnson (Gary Wilde) has worked as a writer and director on various television shows and films.
Conclusion
"Shake It Up!" may have ended its run over a decade ago, but its impact on the world of children’s entertainment is still felt. The show’s catchy music, relatable characters, and lighthearted humor made it a beloved part of many childhoods. As we look back on the show’s success, it’s clear that "Shake It Up!" will always be a part of our collective cultural consciousness.