What follows when your biggest aspiration turns into a challenge? For the aspiring dancers of the renowned Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, it can transform from a delightful opportunity into a daunting experience.

Established in the 1960s, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) have become emblematic figures of American culture, drawing attention for their beauty and athleticism. The entry requirements have tightened over the years, especially since the introduction of their distinctive uniforms in the ’70s. Under the guidance of Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell, the rigorous audition process was showcased in the CMT series “Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making The Team,” which wrapped up in 2022 after 16 seasons. In 2024, the Netflix docuseries “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” resumed the narrative, offering insights from the cheerleaders about their personal challenges behind the scenes.

Both shows revealed the unforeseen difficulties faced by the dancers, including instances of harassment and minimal compensation. Now, let’s delve into the lesser-known realities of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

Achieving membership as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader is a significant honor. Many dancers train extensively, often auditioning multiple times over several years. Despite the prestige associated with being part of this elite squad, the DCC has faced criticism for its unfair labor practices and meager salaries.

In contrast to NFL players like Dak Prescott, who earn substantial sums, cheerleaders are reportedly compensated around $500 per game and $15-20 per hour for rehearsals. As stated in the Netflix documentary “America’s Sweethearts,” by Charlotte Jones, CBO and daughter of the team owner, despite the low wages, many cheerleaders are motivated by deeper connections and passion rather than financial gain.

Most cheerleaders juggle additional full-time jobs to make ends meet. In 2018, former cheerleader Erica Wilkins filed a lawsuit against the Cowboys for wage theft, claiming she made only $4,700 post-taxes throughout a year of performances and appearances.

To qualify as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, one needs talent, commitment, and specific physical traits, including a flawless appearance characterized by well-styled hair, perfect makeup, and fit physiques. The temptations of revealing uniforms mean that cheerleaders constantly face scrutiny from directors Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell.

Before joining the team, aspiring cheerleaders undergo a makeover, but they are required to pay for it, as no stipend is provided. Moreover, once a cheerleader is fitted for her uniform, she must maintain that weight throughout her tenure. The strict enforcement of these weight regulations puts immense pressure on the dancers, which can lead to serious emotional struggles. Many cheerleaders have reported that their time on the team negatively affected their body image, and without health insurance, many of them face mental health challenges without adequate support.