Hailee Payne was born on January 30, 1995 in Utah. She discovered her passion for dance at a young age, starting out as a jazz dancer when she was just 4 years old. As she grew older, Hailee ventured into various dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, hip hop, and ballroom.
Hailee gained national attention when she became a contestant on season 12 of the popular dance competition show, So You Think You Can Dance. Her talent and charisma on the show earned her a spot on the So You Think You Can Dance Tour in 2015, where she dazzled audiences with her performances.
One of the challenges Hailee faced during her dance journey was tackling foreign dance styles. She found these styles to be intimidating, as they often hold deep cultural significance. Hailee was determined not to misrepresent a particular style and risk offending someone.
In 2015, Hailee welcomed a new member to her family when her mother married her step-father, Layne. She has a brother and three step-siblings, creating a close-knit family dynamic. In the past, Hailee dated Trevor Kennedy in 2012 before becoming engaged to Anthony Maggioncalda in June 2023.
Hailee's bond with her family and loved ones has played a significant role in her life, providing her with a strong support system as she navigates the highs and lows of her dance career.
During her time on So You Think You Can Dance, Hailee shared the stage with fellow Utah dancer, Alexia Meyer. She also revealed that her favorite So You Think You Can Dance All-Star is Allison Holker, who hails from their home state of Utah.
Hailee's dedication to her craft, coupled with her vibrant personality, has solidified her status as a rising star in the dance world. She continues to inspire audiences with her talent and passion for dance.