Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: The Fight for Fair Pay Revealed
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The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are known worldwide for their iconic performances and glamorous appearances on the NFL sidelines. However, behind the glitter and glamour, a recent documentary series sheds light on the financial struggles faced by these talented dancers.
Season 2 of “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” premiered on June 18, capturing the journey of the cheerleading squad through the 2024-25 NFL season. The docuseries delves into the ups and downs experienced by the cheerleaders, including their fight for better pay and working conditions.
In the first season, viewers were surprised to discover that the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders were being paid close to minimum wage, despite the demanding schedules and commitments required of them. Many cheerleaders were working multiple jobs to make ends meet, highlighting the disparity between their dedication and compensation.
Season 2 of the documentary series focused on some of the veteran members of the squad who came together to negotiate new contracts for the upcoming season. The lack of a pay increase in their contracts was described as “heartbreaking” by one squad member, reflecting the disappointment felt by the cheerleaders.
After the 2024-25 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys executives eventually agreed to a pay raise for the cheerleaders. This development marked a significant milestone in the cheerleaders’ fight for fair compensation for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.
So, how much do the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders make? Previously, they were reportedly earning an hourly rate of $15 to $20 or around $500 per game, resulting in an estimated annual salary of $75,000. However, the recent negotiations led to a substantial 400% pay increase for the upcoming 2025-26 season, a victory celebrated by the cheerleaders.
The documentary also highlighted the comments of Dallas Cowboys chief brand officer, Charlotte Jones, who emphasized that the cheerleaders’ motivation goes beyond monetary rewards. Jones acknowledged the limited financial compensation but stressed the cheerleaders’ passion for dance and their desire to perform at an elite level as their driving force.
The journey of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, as portrayed in “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by professional cheerleaders in the sports industry. While progress has been made in advocating for fair pay and better working conditions, there is still work to be done to ensure that these talented performers receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.
In conclusion, the spotlight on the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders’ fight for fair pay in the documentary series sheds light on the importance of recognising and valuing the contributions of all individuals, including those behind the scenes of the sporting world.