Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Gain 400% Pay Raise After Netflix Series

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders recently appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, delivering a high-energy performance of their iconic "Thunderstruck" routine to promote Season 2 of Netflix's America's Sweethearts, which chronicles their demanding training and financial struggles. Their appearance captivated the audience and reinforced their status as cultural icons, with the cheerleaders noted to sometimes outshine the football team itself in popularity. The Netflix series revealed that despite the Dallas Cowboys being valued at $10 billion, cheerleaders earned as little as $15 per hour for rehearsals and $500 per game, prompting pay negotiations led by veteran members. As a result, their compensation was increased by about 400%, raising game pay to $2,000 per appearance and hourly wages up to $60-75 for veterans, potentially allowing earnings around $150,000 annually. This media spotlight, including recent performances on the Today show and social media buzz, highlights both the cheerleaders' artistry and the significant changes in their pay structure. The cheerleaders continue to dominate offseason attention, demonstrating their enduring appeal beyond the football field.