Courtney Johnson reflects on how Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rejection fueled her media career
For most aspiring dancers, not making the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) squad would feel like a crushing setback. But for Courtney Johnson, it turned out to be a career-defining opportunity.
Over a decade later, the former DCC hopeful is reflecting on how rejection from one of the most iconic NFL cheer squads helped shape her successful journey as a content creator and media professional.
Courtney
Johnson
turned rejection into redirection
In a recent video posted to her Instagram and TikTok platforms, Johnson—now with nearly half a million followers—spoke candidly about her experience auditioning for the DCC. She was featured on Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, the long-running reality series on CMT that ran until 2021.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by ColorsTV (@colorstv)
"My most insane lore is that I was on America's Sweethearts, before it was called America's Sweethearts,' she joked, referring to the Netflix docuseries that reignited fan interest in the DCC legacy.
Though she didn't make the final team, she described the process as deeply rewarding. 'Even though I didn't make the team, it was like the biggest dream I had since I was a little girl. I made it all the way to the top 36, met amazing people.'
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Find your most suitable hearing aid
Amplifon
Book Now
Undo
She added, 'It kind of felt like The Amazing Race where you're all in it together as a team.'
Learning from mentors—and building a media empire
Johnson spoke highly of longtime DCC director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell, calling them 'incredible mentors.' She credits the reality TV experience with helping her become confident in front of the camera and learning storytelling and media techniques:
"It really helped my career. I learned how to be in front of the camera.
I learned how to do storytelling and talk and media."
Today, Johnson leverages those skills to empower others with job tips and career insights through her growing social media presence. What started as a failed audition has now become the foundation of a flourishing career—proof that rejection, when met with optimism and grit, can sometimes be the biggest break of all.
Also Read:
Netflix fan-favorite Jenna Waller makes the cut as Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders announces 2025 rookie cheerleaders
FAQs
1. Did Courtney Johnson make the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders team?
No, Courtney Johnson was cut after reaching the top 36 during auditions over a decade ago.
2. How did getting cut from the DCC impact Courtney Johnson's career?
Courtney Johnson says it helped launch her media career by teaching her camera skills, storytelling, and confidence.
3. What does Courtney Johnson do now?
Courtney Johnson's a successful content creator with nearly half a million followers, sharing career advice and life experiences on social media.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
18 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Ozzy Osbourne, Hulk Hogan, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Chuck Mangione: Remembering the celebrities we lost this week
The fourth week of July has been a week of mourning. From 'Prince of Darkness' Ozzy Osbourne to pro-wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, a number of beloved celebrities have passed away - all within a span of four days. Hulk Hogan (L, AP Photo), Malcolm-Jamal Warner (Reuters) and Ozzy Osbourne (Instagram)(AP/Reuters/Instagram) The week started with the tragic death of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner in Costa Rica on Sunday, July 20. A couple of days later, on Tuesday, heavy metal legend and the frontman of the metal band, Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne, passed away. Given how big a name Ozzy Osbourne is in the world of music, there was little notice of the fact that Grammy-winning jazz musician Chuck Mangione also passed away on Tuesday. Then, on Thursday, July 24, Hulk Hogan died. With the world still mourning the deaths of four big-name celebrities within a week, we remember them here for all the joy and love they brought to fans. Malcolm-Jamal Warner (1970–2025) Malcolm-Jamal Warner tragically died on July 20, 2025, at age 54 after an accidental drowning while swimming off the coast of Costa Rica with his daughter. Beloved for his role as Theo Huxtable on 'The Cosby Show', he also delivered thoughtful TV roles in shows like The Resident. Ozzy Osbourne (1948–2025) The world bid farewell to rock icon Ozzy Osbourne on July 22, 2025, when he died at age 76 in his Buckinghamshire home, surrounded by family. Despite battling Parkinson's and undergoing multiple surgeries, he delivered one final emotional performance at Villa Park seated on a throne earlier that month, leaving fans in tears. Also read: Legendary WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan dies at 71 Chuck Mangione (1940–2025) Smooth jazz maestro Chuck Mangione, whose flugelhorn melodies became global staples, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 22 at age 84. Best known for the timeless hit 'Feels So Good,' he left an indelible mark on 1970s jazz-pop fusion. Hulk Hogan (1953–2025) Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on July 24, at age 71 from cardiac arrest at his Florida home. Hogan defined an era with his charisma, iconic handlebar mustache, and booming "Hulkamania" energy. He remained active in politics and pop culture, most recently delivering a rousing speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
Pink Villa
18 minutes ago
- Pink Villa
Happy Gilmore 2: Everything We Know About Adam Sandler-Starring Sequel, From Release Date to Streaming Details
Adam Sandler will return in his iconic role of a golfer in the upcoming sequel to the 1996 hit film. While the fans, new and old, are highly anticipating the movie's release, it was announced by the makers previously that the cinematic piece will be dropped on Netflix directly. According to the reports of People Magazine, the cast will include some characters from the original film and some new faces will join the star-studded line-up. Earlier, the trailer for the sequel was dropped by Netflix, sharing the glimpse of Sandler returning to the sport after 30 years. All we know about Happy Gilmore 2 Happy Gilmore 2 will reunite Sandler and the Modern Family star, Julie Bowen, on screen after nearly 30 years. Additional cast members include Ben Still and some new joiners, such as the Kansas City Chiefs star, Travis Kelce, Paige Spiranac, Post Malone and Bad Bunny. Many popular faces from the golfing industry will also share the screen space with the veteran star. The names include Jack Nicklaus, John Daly, Bryson DeChambeau, Justin Thomas, Lee Trevino, Will Zalatoris, Jordan Spieth, and others. As for the plot of the film, the upcoming sequel will revolve around Happy Gilmore, who is struggling to get back into the game of golf. While he tries to figure out his professional career, his personal life isn't too rosy either. Meanwhile, speaking about the film and getting back into the iconic character after 30 years, Adam Sandler revealed, "The movie itself picks up from an older guy who played golf a long time. Some stuff goes on in his life, and he's different—he's a bit of a mess.' He added, 'And then we try to get his life cooking again.' The sequel to the 1996 film is set to hit the digital screens on July 25. ALSO READ: Adam Sandler's Happy Gilmore 2 Trailer Teases Surprise Cameos From Travis Kelce, Bad Bunny and More; WATCH
Time of India
35 minutes ago
- Time of India
Hulk Hogan ex-wife Linda Hogan last Instagram post before Hulk Hogan death sparks emotion online. Here's what she said
Hulk Hogan 's ex-wife Linda Hogan shared a heartwarming Instagram post a few days before his death at 71. Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, who passed away at the age of 71, was remembered not only for his long career but also for his personal life. His ex-wife, Linda Hogan, shared a touching message just days before his death. Their complex relationship, marked by public comments and emotional distance, has drawn renewed attention since the announcement of Hogan's passing. Linda Hogan Posts Memory Before Hulk Hogan Death Linda Hogan, who was married to Hulk Hogan from 1993 to 2009, posted a photo on Instagram a few days before his death. The image showed the couple embracing during the 1980s. Hogan was dressed in one of his signature red and yellow outfits, while Linda wore a period look. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Finance Product Management PGDM CXO Healthcare Technology Artificial Intelligence Degree Cybersecurity Management MBA others Data Science healthcare Project Management Digital Marketing Design Thinking Operations Management Others MCA Data Analytics Data Science Public Policy Leadership Skills you'll gain: Duration: 9 Months IIM Calcutta SEPO - IIMC CFO India Starts on undefined Get Details Skills you'll gain: Duration: 7 Months S P Jain Institute of Management and Research CERT-SPJIMR Fintech & Blockchain India Starts on undefined Get Details She captioned the photo, 'The good old days!' The post quickly gained attention after news of Hogan's death spread. Many saw it as a final moment of reflection on their shared past, even though they had not been together for years. Hulk Hogan Old Video Resurfaces About Marriage Problems About three months earlier, Linda Hogan had shared a video where she opened up emotionally about her past with Hulk Hogan. In the video, she appeared to cry as she spoke about her experience in their marriage. She claimed Hogan was a 'sex addict' and said the problems in their marriage had caused lasting emotional pain. She mentioned trying to fix their family multiple times but feeling rejected. Linda also said she had no interest in marrying again after her experience with Hogan. Live Events Hulk Hogan Strained Family Ties Hulk Hogan was married three times. After divorcing Linda, he married Jennifer McDaniel in 2010. That marriage ended in 2021. His most recent marriage was with Sky Daily, starting in 2023 and continuing until his death in 2025. From his marriage with Linda, Hogan had two children — Brooke and Nick. He reportedly had a difficult relationship with both. In early 2025, Brooke gave birth to twins, making Hogan a grandfather. However, reports suggest he was estranged from Brooke before that. She wrote in a post around the time of Hogan's third marriage that she was distancing herself from her family. She said she was focusing on healing and aligning her life with her values. Hulk Hogan Fans React to Linda Hogan's Post After Linda's Instagram post, many fans shared messages of support and sympathy. While her earlier video showed anger and pain, the photo post was seen as a reflection on better times. The photo reminded many of Hulk Hogan's impact both in the ring and in pop culture. It also highlighted how relationships, even broken ones, leave lasting impressions. FAQs What did Linda Hogan post before Hulk Hogan's death? A few days before his death, Linda Hogan posted an old photo of them together with the caption 'The good old days!' on Instagram. How did Linda Hogan describe her marriage to Hulk Hogan? In a past video, Linda said she experienced emotional pain during her marriage, calling Hogan a sex addict and blaming him for their broken family.
