Professional dancer Lindsay Arnold achieved her lifelong dream in 2013 when she joined the cast of Dancing With the Stars. But little did she know at the time, an even more meaningful experience was just around the corner. In the spin-off series, Dancing With the Stars: Juniors, Lindsay had the incredible opportunity to mentor her youngest sister, Rylee Arnold, who is also a professional dancer. This unique partnership brought the siblings closer together and created a bond they’ll cherish forever. In a recent exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, Lindsay opened up about the profound impact this experience had on their relationship.

A Bond Like Never Before

When Lindsay was asked to mentor her sister Rylee on Dancing With the Stars: Juniors, it wasn’t just another gig for her—it was a chance to connect with her sibling in a way that only dance could provide. The Season 25 Mirror Ball Champion shared how this experience deepened their bond in ways they never imagined. "First of all, being on DWTS on its own was a dream come true," Lindsay said. "And then to be on DWTS with my youngest sister? Every single day I went into work, I felt like I was living in a dream. It was surreal and magical, and I pinched myself every day to make sure it was real."

Lindsay, 24, and her three younger sisters—Jensen, 21, Brynley, 18, and Rylee, 13—all grew up dancing together. Growing up in Provo, Utah, dance was not just a hobby for the Arnold sisters; it was a way of life. "Dancing was something we all loved, and we did it together," Lindsay recalled. "Whether it was traveling to competitions or just going to class, it really created a special bond for our whole family." While the sisters already had a close relationship, mentoring Rylee on the show allowed Lindsay to forge an even deeper connection with her youngest sibling. "I don't think we would've been able to create this kind of bond had it not been for that show," Lindsay admitted candidly. "I'm so grateful for it."

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😆😆😆😆 guys I cannot even begin to express how happy I am right now that I can finally tell you all that I will be mentoring my baby sis @ryleearnold1 on the first EVER @dwtsjuniors 🎉🎉 it is so surreal and special working with this little one and I cannot wait for you all to see how much talent she has. Stay tuned for behind the scenes posts and to find out who her celebrity partner is!!! Yayyyy!!!! It’s happening!! #arnoldFAMonDWTS #DWTS #DWTSJUNIORS
A post shared by Lindsay Arnold Cusick (@lindsarnold) on Aug 1, 2018 at 10:37am PDT

Appreciating Rylee’s Talent and Maturity

Lindsay also shared how much she admired Rylee's poise and maturity during the competition. Watching her sister navigate the pressures of the show from the sidelines gave Lindsay a newfound appreciation for Rylee's talent and character. "I'm so proud of the way she handled everything," Lindsay said. "It's tough for these kids—they're under a lot of pressure—but Rylee was so mature about it. She handled everything with grace, and it really made me appreciate everything she brings to the table." This experience not only strengthened their bond but also allowed Lindsay to see her sister in a new light, one that filled her with pride and admiration.

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Happy birthday dad!!!!!! @jdarnold20 we are the luckiest girls in the world to have you as our dad! Thank you for all that you do for us ❤️❤️❤️
A post shared by Lindsay Arnold Cusick (@lindsarnold) on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:04pm PDT
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A Family Affair

For the Arnold sisters, dance has always been a family affair. Their father, JD Arnold, has been a constant source of support and encouragement, fostering their passion for the arts. "We're the luckiest girls in the world to have him as our dad," Lindsay said in a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating her father's birthday. "Thank you for everything you do for us." This sense of family extends beyond just their immediate household, as their shared love for dance has brought them closer together and created a legacy that will last a lifetime.