The Los Angeles Lakers. Liverpool F.C. Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.
No matter which way you slice it, the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders are one of the most famous sports organizations to have ever existed. Nicknamed “America’s Sweethearts” – much like how the football team they cheer for are “America’s Team” – this 63 year old group is as popular as they are recognizable.
Now, after years of hotpants and crop tops, the members of the team can finally make a living wage.
Give Me An $$$!
During the second season of the Netflix docuseries “America’s Sweethearts,” the team announced that the cheerleaders will receive a 400% pay raise for the upcoming 2025 season.
The news came in the seventh episode of the season that started streaming on Wednesday.
The pay increase is a welcome change for a profession that is known to not pay low wages. Cheerleaders typically make anywhere between $7 to $15 per hour and $150 to $200 per appearance. Pay varies from team to team.
Former cheerleader Erica Wilkins sued the team over unfair wage practices between 2014 and 2017. The case was settled out of court in 2019.
Another former cheerleader, Jada McLean, told The New York Times that she made $15 per hour and $500 per appearance. She is featured in the docuseries.
The wage increase could now exceed $75 per hour. There’s also a new contract that changes how pay for game day and other appearances works. Health insurance is still not included due to the women being considered part time employees.
Giving Spirit Fingers to the Glass Ceiling
The pay gender gap has been an issue among cheerleaders in the NFL for a while. A 2019 documentary titled “A Woman’s Work: The NFL’s Cheerleader Problem” covered the woes of two former Los Angeles Raiders and Buffalo Bills cheerleaders.
The first season of “America’s Sweethearts” chronicled not just the practice and on field work of the cheerleaders but also their personal struggles outside of the organization. These included many of the women having to work extra jobs just to make ends meet.
Being an NFL cheerleader requires winning an audition process that features thousands of women vying for a handful of open spots on the squad. Additionally, there are hours of rehearsals, practice, home games and halftime performances. Not to mention the special appearances at events.
As previously mentioned, while the cheerleaders don’t get health care, they do have access to a team doctor and physical therapist.
Both seasons of “America’s Sweethearts” are streaming on Netflix.
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Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Land a 400% Pay Raise