Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders S2: Still The Most Toxic Series on Netflix

The second season of America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders has just been released on Netflix, giving viewers a glimpse into the world of the professional dance troupe that supports the iconic NFL football team. However, as fans delve deeper into the show, a darker side of the industry is revealed.

Each year, the team undergoes a selection process where returning members (veterans) and new cheerleaders (rookies) compete for a spot on the squad. While talent and skills are important criteria, outdated standards of beauty and body image are also scrutinized.

One of the most glaring instances of body image scrutiny is during the uniform fittings. The dancers are fitted with costumes that leave no room for alterations throughout the year, leading to concerns about changes in body composition and bloating. This rigid standard can be particularly challenging for dancers who experience fluctuations in weight or body shape.

Despite claims from Director Kelli Finglass that the show has moved away from focusing on body types, episodes from the second season suggest otherwise. Comments made by the directors about dancers’ physical attributes, such as shoulders or torso size, hint at underlying biases towards certain body types.

The show also delves into the personal struggles of some cheerleaders, with discussions on body image issues and eating disorders. Contestants like Dayton openly share their battles with self-image, highlighting the pressures faced by aspiring cheerleaders to maintain a certain physique.

The judging panel for the final auditions includes individuals from various backgrounds, such as a country music singer and a broadcast meteorologist. Some of the comments made by these judges about the contestants’ appearances come off as inappropriate and insensitive, further adding to the stress and scrutiny faced by the cheerleaders.

While season 2 has been commended for the cheerleaders receiving a significant pay increase, the ongoing issues surrounding body image and beauty standards within the squad remain prevalent. The show’s portrayal of these issues in a public platform like Netflix can have a detrimental impact on viewers and perpetuate harmful ideals of beauty.

As conversations around body image continue to evolve, it is essential to critically examine the standards set by shows like America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. While the series offers a glimpse into the competitive world of professional cheerleading, it also raises important questions about the impact of unrealistic beauty standards on aspiring dancers.

Viewers are encouraged to watch season 2 with caution, keeping in mind the complex issues surrounding body image and beauty standards portrayed in the show. America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is now available for streaming on Netflix.