Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this cheerleading reality series -- which will probably appeal to young cheerleaders, as well as to longtime fans of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders -- includes lots of cleavage shots, skimpy costumes, suggestive dance moves, and discussions of "male appeal." On the flipside, the series also shows the hard work that goes into becoming a team member. The women are judged on their physical appearance, including their weight and sex appeal, as well as their intelligence, athleticism, and strength of character.
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Embarrassing for women
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Old Dogs
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What's the Story?
Featuring the world's most famous cheerleading squad, DALLAS COWBOYS CHEERLEADERS: MAKING THE TEAM offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to wear the uniform. At the team's pre-season training camp, the 40+ hopefuls who make the first cut must prove they have the star quality needed to earn one of the team's 36 coveted spots. Under the scrutiny of director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell, the trainees must quickly learn dance routines and football trivia, hone interview skills, and endure hours of intense physical training with a former army sergeant. The candidates must prove themselves to be good dancers, strong athletes, and intelligent, classy, articulate ambassadors for the Cowboys. But, not surprisingly, the key thing the women have to have is great sex appeal, especially when they wear the famously revealing uniform.
Is It Any Good?
It's hard not to feel conflicted when watching this show. It features women putting their heart and soul into making a team that was founded -- and continues to exist -- for the purpose of providing eye candy for male football fans. On the other hand, it's an honest portrayal of what goes into to creating these popular American icons. And it definitely shows viewers how much hard work and determination goes into becoming a professional cheerleader.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about cheerleading. What do kids/teens think about the sport? What are the origins of cheerleading? Did you know it started out as an all-male activity? Why do you think that changed? Families can also discuss the stereotypes that are typically associated with cheerleaders. How are cheerleaders typically portrayed in the media? Do professional teams like the DCC eliminate or perpetuate these stereotypes? Why? Does this show change your opinion of cheerleaders?
TV Details
- Premiere date: September 29, 2006
- Cast: Jay Johnson, Judy Trammell, Kelli Finglass
- Network: CMT
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: July 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Cheerleader Nation
Family-friendly reality show that's OK for teens.
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Cheerleader U
Raise a pompon for these hardworking athletes.
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