Here’s the thing about America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, it is showing a problem–without realizing it’s a problem. These cheerleaders, who are the face of the Dallas Cowboys, are paid as much as a Chick-fil-a worker. They all have full time jobs, pursuing cheerleading on the side. But the mental toll and amount of physical work they put in renders their situation unfair. Their coach, Kelli, stated that these girls do it because they love it, so they don’t need the money. But if we’re using those words, the same philosophy can be applied to the very football players they cheer for. I understand the world of cheer, dance, and gymnastics all face the same kinds of beauty challenges. But the way these coaches speak to these women, even and especially at the professional level, is terrible.

I will say, I loved almost all of the cheerleaders themselves who were on the show. Victoria was so sweet, and at the end of the show, chose to move to New York City and not enter a final fifth year on the team (which is probably for the best). Now, she’s striving to become part of the New York City Rockettes and enter Broadway. Kelsey, the star of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, had her fifth and final season shown on the docuseries. Now, she is focusing on her nursing career and getting ready for her wedding–but is also a DCC All Star!

I did love the premise of the show, but it does remind you of what happens all the time in the professional performing world.

From an entertainment perspective, I did love the drama and filming style of the show. I think it did a great job of creating a newfound appreciation for NFL cheerleaders who are finally starting to get the recognition they deserve.