Reel Review: America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Season Two Left Us Thunderstruck
Whether you’re a Dallas Cowboys football fan or not, the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders are icons in their own right. Netflix’s documentary America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders was a breakout hit in 2024, and season two delivered just as much heart, drama, dance, and sparkle.
The show poses an interesting challenge, as each television season recounts the events of the prior season. With this format, many fans already knew which rookies made the team, like Charly Barby. However, knowing she made the team didn’t negate the sweetness of watching her dream finally come true in season two. This season leaned into the rookie members’s experience more so than most of the veteran dancers, but I think the entire world would agree we need more Reece Weaver content! However, the strong bond between the rookies was the heart of this season. If the Netflix gods grace us with a season three, I hope some season one and two fan favorites don’t fade from the spotlight. There’s room for rookies and veterans to shine on the show!
Season one revealed the shocking fact that most DCC dancers hold multiple jobs to make ends meet. TikTok exploded with an outpouring of support for women to be paid livable wages, and this season followed several of the team leaders as they fought for that change. Team leader Jada McLean led the charge for pay reform for women, which finally came to fruition with a 400% pay increase. Although many retiring dancers (including Mclean) won’t reap the rewards of their work personally, it’s refreshing to watch a reality show where all the women truly are advocating for one another.
One of the most emotional moments was when team leader Armani Latimer performed without her wig. The dancer bravely spoke about her struggle with alopecia and self-image. Another critique the show has received in the past was the harmful body image ideas it creates for women. This season seemed to embrace all the women for their differences, especially Latimer’s courageous decision to perform without her wig. Again, while it’d be easy to make all the women be the exact same body type, have the same hairstyle, and wear the same makeup, it’s evident that the DCC franchise is working towards a more progressive team that champions women for who they are.
Another emotional storyline was team leader Chandi Dayle’s struggle with mental health in the final episodes of season two. The team leader opened up about her past, revealing an abusive ex-boyfriend turned stalker. She also spoke about her struggles as a team leader and losing her joy of dance. While Chandi did break a significant DCC rule during the team retreat, I’m glad the DCC leaders Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell didn’t ostracize her for her mistake and instead helped her focus on her mental health.
Season one’s storyline relied heavily on Victoria Kalina’s time as a dancer. The season even ended with her abrupt decision to leave the team. Brief moments of catching up with Kalina and her mother left fans wondering if all is well behind the scenes. Finglass mentioned the talented dancer early on in the season, but the moment was incredibly vague. Regardless, it was fun to see Kalina pursuing her dreams outside of DCC and moving to New York City!
Season one skyrocketed the DCC franchise to a whole new level of notoriety, and the success and strong support of fans empowered the women to advocate for themselves, their mental health, better wages, and more ownership of their image. Yes, the stars are bright in Texas, but the future of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is even brighter.
