Why getting cut from the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders was the best thing for this woman’s career
A content creator auditioned to be a part of the coveted Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders over a decade ago, but not making the team turned out to be a blessing.
Courtney Johnson, a content creator and former contestant on Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, recently shared how getting cut from the DCC over a decade ago actually helped launch her career.
From DCC hopeful to full-time content creator
While most of Johnson’s half-a-million Instagram and TikTok followers were hoping for some juicy “tea” on what it was really like to audition for the DCC, she had to disappoint them. She only had positive things to say about the experience, despite not making it onto the final roster. She called it her “first foray” into “having big goals” and “manifesting”.
@courtney..johnson My experience on #americassweethearts #dcc #dccmakingtheteam #dallascowboyscheerleaders #americassweetheartsnetflix
♬ original sound - courtney johnson
Johnson reached the top 36, getting cut when they changed the final number to 34 girls, and praised DCC leaders Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell for creating a supportive environment.
“Kelli and Judy were such incredible mentors... It honestly was a really supportive, loving environment,” Johnson reflected. “It kind of felt like the Amazing Race where you’re all in it together as a team.”
Johnson explained that the experience gave her crucial early exposure to cameras, media, and storytelling - skills she now uses in her successful content creation career, where she shares job advice with nearly half a million followers.
She also addressed fan questions, from payment for appearing on the CMT reality show (around $8/hr) to backstage logistics, reinforcing the message that the DCC is a demanding but professional job that teaches resilience, branding, and discipline - even for those who don’t make the team.
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