Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Win Major Salary Increase
The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders have achieved a remarkable 400% salary increase from the NFL, a change that follows their relentless pursuit for better wages.
This change is part of their story depicted in “American Lover: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders,” which is the second season of a Netflix series. It will start being implemented in the 2025 NFL season.
Jada McLean, a seasoned cheerleader with five years of experience, shared that veteran members can now earn up to $75 per hour. Previously, McLean had reported that in 2024, she earned $15, $15, and $500 per appearance.
Despite this increase, veteran cheerleaders like McLean noted they still haven’t received any health benefits.
Before this salary boost, McLean expressed to the outlet that many cheerleaders found it challenging to manage the 2024-25 contract, necessitating them to take on additional jobs.
“Sure, we might still have to do more than cheer,” she mentioned, “but it’s about having a way to make it work so we can actually live.”
She added, “Honestly, I’m over that because we all struggle financially.”
At one stage, McLean and her fellow dancers felt motivated to send a clear message to management about their financial demands.
Armani Latimer remarked on the Netflix show, “We pushed and got some positive results.” Latimer expressed pride in knowing she was part of the movement, emphasizing her desire to make a difference for future cheerleaders, even if it hasn’t benefited her directly.
Back in 2017, ESPN reported that cheerleaders made between $75 to $150 per game. Then, in 2018, former cheerleader Erica Wilkins disclosed she received just $7 per hour and $200 per game.
On Saturday, former cheerleader Christine Westbrook shared on her Instagram that she received $15 an hour and $400 per NFL game while she was part of the team from 2019 to 2022.
Westbrook indicated that the team was compensated with a flat fee for appearances, amounting to $100 for each engagement throughout her time with the squad.
The first season of “American Lover: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” premiered last June, followed by the second season’s release just recently. The show highlights the rigorous auditions and training the cheerleaders undergo as they prepare for the NFL season.
