America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders Season 2 Review
Netflix has recently released the highly anticipated second season of America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, a compelling documentary series that delves into the world of the iconic NFL dance troupe. While the show showcases the talent and dedication of the cheerleaders, it also sheds light on some concerning aspects of the industry.
Each year, the team undergoes a rigorous selection process, with returning members and new recruits vying for a spot on the coveted squad. While factors like technique and performance skills are important, the show also highlights outdated standards of beauty and body image that are imposed on the dancers.
Warning: The following content contains discussions on weight, body image, and eating disorders.
One of the most striking moments in the series is during the uniform fittings, where the dancers are fitted into their signature outfits with no room for adjustments throughout the year. This strict standard does not account for natural changes in the dancers’ bodies, such as muscle mass fluctuations or bloating.
Director Kelli Finglass claimed to have moved away from discussing body types in the show, but comments made in the second season suggest otherwise. Instances where dancers’ physical attributes are scrutinized and criticized, such as comments about “tiny shoulders and torsos,” highlight the pressure to conform to a specific body ideal.
The series also delves into the personal struggles of some dancers, including issues with body image and eating disorders. The pressure to maintain a certain physique for the team can take a toll on the mental and physical well-being of the performers.
While the show has been commended for addressing some issues, such as increasing the dancers’ pay, it also raises concerns about the toxic culture within the cheerleading industry. Criticisms from judges about the dancers’ appearances and questionable remarks about makeovers and physical features further highlight the damaging effects of unrealistic beauty standards.
As viewers navigate through the complexities of the cheerleading world, it serves as a reminder of the pervasive influence of societal norms around body image and beauty. The series prompts reflection on the impact of these standards on individuals and the importance of promoting body positivity and self-acceptance.
Despite its captivating portrayal of the cheerleading world, America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders Season 2 leaves a lingering discomfort about the darker aspects of the industry. Viewers are urged to approach the series with caution and critical awareness.
America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders Season 2 is now available for streaming on Netflix.