In the first episode of Netflix’s new docuseries, America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, former cheerleader Katherine Puryear offers viewers a candid look at the pay for NFL cheerleaders. Her comments have sparked widespread interest and conversation, both on the show and on social media.
Key Insights from the Series and Puryear’s TikTok:
Cheerleader Pay Transparency:
- Puryear compares her earnings as a cheerleader to a full-time Chick-fil-A worker.
- She reveals this after being asked directly about her compensation, a topic that resonates throughout the episode.
- Puryear expands on this discussion in a TikTok video, which has garnered over seven million views.
Breakdown of Compensation:
- Game Day Pay: Cheerleaders receive a flat fee for game days. Puryear mentions that these days can last up to 11 hours, and they are paid hourly for this time.
- Practice Pay: Practices are compensated on an hourly basis.
- Appearance Fees: Cheerleaders are also paid a flat fee plus an hourly rate for attending local events, with the pay varying based on their tenure. This pay structure aligns with a 2022 NBC Sports Boston report, which states that Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders earn about $15-20 per hour or $500 per game.
Comparison with Other NFL Teams:
- The report indicates that Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, along with the Carolina TopCats, are among the highest-paid in the NFL.
- On average, NFL cheerleaders earn about $150 per game, or $22,500 per year.
1.Commitment vs. Compensation:
- Puryear highlights that cheerleading for the Cowboys is a full-time commitment but offers part-time pay.
- Despite the extensive hours and effort, many cheerleaders, including Puryear, maintain part-time jobs alongside their cheerleading duties.
2. Perspectives from Veteran Cheerleaders:
- Former cheerleader Tina Kalina recalls earning a mere $35 per game day, which they often donated back.
- She contrasts the current generation of cheerleaders, who view it as a job, with her own, who saw it as a privilege.
3. Official Statements from the Team:
- Charlotte Jones, executive vice president and chief brand officer of the Dallas Cowboys, acknowledges the criticism regarding cheerleader pay.
- Jones emphasizes that cheerleaders are driven by their passion for dance, not by the financial compensation. She points out that opportunities to perform at such an elite level are rare in the field of dance.
Conclusion:
The pay structure for Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, while higher than some other NFL teams, still raises questions about fairness and compensation for their dedication and hard work. The insights from Puryear and the series reveal a complex balance between passion and pay, highlighting the challenges and rewards of being a part of America’s Sweethearts.
By shedding light on these realities, Puryear’s comments and the docuseries offer a more nuanced understanding of the world of professional cheerleading. As discussions around fair pay and recognition continue, the voices of these cheerleaders provide valuable perspectives on the intersection of passion and profession.