Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Rise to Fame Through Netflix Docuseries
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, often referred to as America's Sweethearts, have gained significant recognition following the release of the Netflix docuseries that chronicles their lives.
"Five, six, seven, eight... America's Sweethearts are back." Season three of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) docuseries has premiered on Netflix, with heightened stakes and impressive routines.
The show has elevated the cheerleading squad, who support the American football team, to celebrity status through a combination of viral moments and dramatic storytelling.
beat spoke with breakout stars Kleine Powell and Megan McElaney to understand how the increased attention has affected them.
Handling Newfound Fame
The latest season of America's Sweethearts follows the cheerleaders as they navigate their growing fame after previous seasons aired.
"It has been actually really insane," Powell said when asked about the show's viral success.
"I think it's had a really positive impact on not only the dance and athlete world, but just on the world in general with how we kind of integrate our lives into this dance and cheerleading show," she added.
Earlier seasons focused on the rigorous selection process to become a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, a role that attracts young women nationwide.
Viewers often witness squad director Kelli Finglass providing candid, sometimes tough feedback to both veterans and newcomers.
According to Finglass, this direct approach has not discouraged applicants. This year marked the first time the team considered tryouts from individuals who had watched America's Sweethearts.
Exposure from the show can lead to opportunities such as influencer contracts and brand partnerships.
Powell emphasized the importance of motivations, stating, "That means people who want to be a friend and team-mate first versus going in and doing all these selfish things."
"We want people who can be friends and a sister and someone you can call on a bad day to help lift your spirits."
Fanbase and Increased Scrutiny
The current team has developed its own dedicated fanbase.
However, with greater exposure comes increased scrutiny.
"Already being on the team, there is a little bit of an anxiety factor," McElaney explained.
"We're all perfectionists and we want to put our best foot forward in every single performance."
The show's director has noted that fans now frequently record the cheerleaders' pre-match routines on their phones.
McElaney remarked, "It can be difficult to not get in your head" when every performance is shared online.
Most cheerleaders balance full-time jobs alongside their commitment to the Cowboys, with training sessions sometimes ending as late as midnight.
"We're really good about lifting each other up and checking in on our friends," McElaney said.
"Kleine is really good about it. She'll do little locker room laps and she'll be like: 'Hey, how are you doing? How are you doing today? Everything good?'"
Advocacy for Better Pay and Collective Impact
The previous season of America's Sweethearts documented the cheerleaders' successful campaign for improved pay.
Many fans had questioned why salaries were low despite the Dallas Cowboys being the world's most valuable sports team.
Powell and McElaney described it as "exciting" to be part of that change and expressed their commitment to continuing the fight "for the future of new DCCs."
McElaney noted, "We have a strong, united voice that was able to make change and move the needle."
Bridging Sports and World Cup Appearances
The squad has also been fostering connections between sports through appearances at World Cup games held in Dallas.
Their energetic performances have been well received by visiting fans, including supporters of the England national team attending their opening match against Croatia.
"England is so rowdy," Powell joked.
"I love it so much, we need some of that energy for our pre-season games."
It is likely that some visitors to Texas recognized members of the DCC squad.
However, Powell and McElaney do not consider themselves celebrities.
"I don't think we'll ever feel like celebrities," Powell said.
"It's so kind when people view us as that. But I think for us, it's just always been about dance and friendship and being on a team."
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