Where is Dayton Bramhall now? Life after her heartbreaking exit from the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
The auditions to make the coveted DCC is rough for anyone, but Dayton’s journey and personal connection to the team was particularly heartbreaking to watch.
Netflix has given us an inside look into the personal lives of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, including those who try out and don’t make the team. “America’s Sweethearts” has shown us that the auditions are not easy, to put it simply. Even the best, most highly-trained dancers often don’t make the cut. There can only be 36, and not only do they need to be great dancers - but they must be able to flawlessly perform high kicks and jump splits (and I do mean zero errors), put on a smile while doing it (but not too big of a smile), look like a supermodel with perfect hair and makeup, and represent the DCC brand - sexy, but always classy, and never making too much of a stir. (Someone queue up the “Barbie” quote.)
It’s not for the faint of heart. We got a first look at that in season one, when Charly and Kelly were cut during training camp. Season two was no less heartbreaking, as we got to know Dayton Bramhall. Bramhall not only didn’t make the team, but she was cut after already having tried out before, and had the added pressure of her mother being both a former DCC member and an associate choreographer on the staff.
Dayton’s journey continues beyond DCC
Dayton’s story is quite similar to Victoria Kalina from season one - their mothers were both former Cowboys cheerleaders, and they both struggled with eating disorders and mental health issues. In Dayton’s case, she mentions feeling a lot of pressure from her mother and feeling like she disappointed her when she didn’t make the team in 2019. She admitted to stepping away from dance for about three years because she felt that her heart wasn’t in it during that time.
Coming back for tryouts in 2024, Dayton mentioned that she felt like she was doing it for the right reasons this time around - more for herself than anyone else. But the pressure that naturally comes along with being a member of the DCC would be a challenge for anyone, not to mention someone who already struggles with depression and an ED.
While Dayton did make it into training camp, she was unfortunately cut again, with director Kelli Finglass telling her she seemed to be struggling. In the heartbreaking conversation, Finglass makes it known that she is unhappy to be making the decision to let her go and she and choreographer Judy Trammell mention feeling attached to her. Dayton says she’ll tell her mother the news herself. Dayton’s words before walking away are “I’ll be fine” - just as the girls are taught to never let their suffering get in the way.
Dayton done with the DCC?
Dayton recently auditioned to be a DCC again for the 2025 NFL season, but unfortunately it looks like she again didn’t make it. Fans noticed her absence in a group photo of the girls who made it to training camp, posted by DCC on June 15, and expressed disappointment online, praising her perseverance and spirit.
Despite the setback, Dayton again responded with grace, sharing on TikTok and in comments that she gave her best effort and followed all guidance, but ultimately wasn’t what the team was looking for. One comment, however, did seem to show some bitterness as she used the words, “I’m not wanted there.” She expressed hope that this outcome will lead her to where she truly belongs.
Her mother, Shelly Bramhall, also publicly voiced pride in Dayton’s strength and character, trusting that better opportunities lie ahead.
“Dayton’s mom here…I don’t usually comment on any posts regarding her journey, but your words are kind. Her light is bright and will shine elsewhere! She’s beautiful, talented but more importantly, she has a soft, humble spirit. She took the advice to train and do all the things asked of her. She’s stronger for doing so, even if the results weren’t in her favor. God has something better for her, we will wait to see where He leads. 🤍”
Dance still a big part of Dayton’s life
Dayton is a classically trained dancer with a diverse background in ballet, jazz, lyrical, and more. She has performed on major stages, worked as a model and entertainer, and is now an instructor at The Young Company while pursuing new opportunities in dance and fitness. As she looks for new opportunities, it’s clear that dance will remain a core part of her life.
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