The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are the most famous cheerleading group in the world – by far – but a recent Netflix clip went viral, revealing that the team’s cheerleaders are not paid very much money by the NFL franchise.
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders backstage at the ACM Country Kickoff at The Star ahead of the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards from Ford Center on May 10, 2023 in Frisco, Texas. (Photo by Dusana Risovic/Penske Media via Getty Images)
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, who reportedly bring in more than $1 million annually for the franchise, apparently make as much as a fast food worker or substitute teacher.
Sports Illustrated is among those calling out the Cowboys for underpaying the cheerleaders.
From SI.com:
Many were outraged to learn about the sacrifices and little pay the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders were forced to endure to make their dreams come true. A scene from the Netflix reality show America’s Sweethearts went viral after one of the Cowboys’ cheerleaders said they make the same amount of money as fast food workers and substitute teachers. Many of the cheerleaders have two jobs to keep up with bills, while others aren’t able to work for long stretches because of the injuries that occur while performing on game days.
With many upset, hopefully this is the start of NFL cheerleaders getting better pay because doing it solely out of passion isn’t right, especially when the employer is worth billions. Charlotte Jones, daughter of team owner Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ executive vice president and chief brand officer, didn’t have the best response when asked about the lack of pay for the cheerleaders.
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, meanwhile, have made it clear that they are not in it for the money. Still, it’s an understandable criticism.
Jerry Jones’ daughter, Charlotte – an executive for the Cowboys who helps oversee the cheerleaders – responded to the criticism on the Netflix show.
“They have a passion for dance,” she said. “There are not a lot of opportunities in the field of dance, and to get to perform at an elite level. … It is about being a part of something bigger than themselves.”
