Latest news with #America'sSweethearts
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Faith Ward's bold ponytail challenges Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders' iconic style—and fans are split over the new look
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Faith Ward's ponytail has ignited a debate (Image via IG) As the Dallas Cowboys ramp up for the 2025 NFL season, it's not just stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs commanding attention. Rookie cheerleader Faith Ward has sparked a surprising wave of controversy—thanks to her high ponytail. Fans divided as tradition meets individuality on the DCC sidelines Faith Ward, a history-making recruit from New Zealand, became the first woman from her country to make the iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) roster. But it's her choice of hairstyle—not just her dance moves—that's setting social media ablaze. During training camp, Ward ditched the DCC's signature flowing curls in favor of a slicked-back ponytail—a move that instantly triggered both admiration and criticism online. Clips of Ward performing in uniform with her ponytail quickly went viral on TikTok and Instagram. While some viewers loved the sleek look, others were baffled by the break in tradition. 'The pony is iconic but how is she allowed to have it like that?' one commenter asked. Critics expressed concern that loosening long-standing beauty standards could disrupt the polished, uniform image the DCC is famous for. In a candid interview with ABC Perth on July 21, Ward addressed the uproar. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Filipinos should claim this large benefit! Read More Undo She acknowledged the expected DCC look—'fluffy, voluminous, luscious, long locks'—but shared that her ponytail 'broke that stereotype.' The ponytail wasn't Faith Ward's idea—and it might not be permanent Interestingly, Ward revealed the hairstyle was suggested during a rehearsal by DCC director Kelli Finglass while running through the high-energy 'Thunderstruck' routine. Finglass reportedly approved of the look, even comparing it to pop icon Ariana Grande. Still, Ward says the style might not be here to stay. 'We still have to keep an open mind to the possibility that I could be going back to hair out,' she added. A new era of flexibility for America's Sweethearts? Faith Ward isn't alone in pushing the boundaries. Netflix's America's Sweethearts featured other DCC members like Ava Lahey opting for functional tweaks to their glam in the name of comfort and performance. Whether her ponytail sticks or not, Ward is already rewriting the playbook—bringing fresh energy and global flair to one of the NFL's most iconic squads. Also Read: Courtney Johnson reflects on how Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rejection fueled her media career FAQs 1. Why is Faith Ward's ponytail making headlines with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders? Her slicked-back ponytail breaks from the DCC's traditional voluminous hairstyle, sparking debate over individuality versus uniformity. 2. Did Faith Ward choose the ponytail herself? No, the idea came from DCC director Kelli Finglass during a rehearsal, and it received positive feedback. 3. Will the ponytail become a permanent look for DCC? Faith Ward says it's uncertain, noting they're keeping 'an open mind' about returning to the traditional style. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Sydney Morning Herald
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
Guilt, ambition and a ponytail: Australian dancer makes the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader squad
Faith Ward describes the ultra-competitive journey of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader as a cocktail of hard work, determination and, at times, guilt. Before being handed her pair of white boots and star-embroidered vest for a spot in one of the world's most coveted cheerleading squads, the 22-year-old from Perth was booking dance gigs on cruise ships. Speaking from her new bedroom in Dallas, Ward recalls watching the first season of Netflix's docuseries America's Sweethearts from a cruise bunk bed, dreaming about one day being part of the squad. 'I don't think I will ever fully process the fact that I'm a DCC. It feels like a dream, and I'm still waiting to wake up from it,' Ward told this masthead. Thousands auditioned for one of six rookie spots offered this year – the smallest intake in history, according to Ward, who was born in New Zealand but raised in Western Australia. She becomes the third Australian and first New Zealander to do so. After auditioning, Ward battled through a gruelling training camp, watching new friends – who had trained their whole lives for a spot in the squad – get sent home each day. 'I almost felt like, do I belong in this position?' she said. 'Because this has been just as much my dream as it probably was theirs, but they have thought about this since the day they could walk.' 'Some of these girls would give their right arm to be here. So would I – I have worked just as hard … even though from the get-go, it wasn't like 'I want to be a DCC'. I wanted to make it in the dance world and do something that makes me happy. This happened to be it.
The Age
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Age
Guilt, ambition and a ponytail: Australian dancer makes the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader squad
Faith Ward describes the ultra-competitive journey of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader as a cocktail of hard work, determination and, at times, guilt. Before being handed her pair of white boots and star-embroidered vest for a spot in one of the world's most coveted cheerleading squads, the 22-year-old from Perth was booking dance gigs on cruise ships. Speaking from her new bedroom in Dallas, Ward recalls watching the first season of Netflix's docuseries America's Sweethearts from a cruise bunk bed, dreaming about one day being part of the squad. 'I don't think I will ever fully process the fact that I'm a DCC. It feels like a dream, and I'm still waiting to wake up from it,' Ward told this masthead. Thousands auditioned for one of six rookie spots offered this year – the smallest intake in history, according to Ward, who was born in New Zealand but raised in Western Australia. She becomes the third Australian and first New Zealander to do so. After auditioning, Ward battled through a gruelling training camp, watching new friends – who had trained their whole lives for a spot in the squad – get sent home each day. 'I almost felt like, do I belong in this position?' she said. 'Because this has been just as much my dream as it probably was theirs, but they have thought about this since the day they could walk.' 'Some of these girls would give their right arm to be here. So would I – I have worked just as hard … even though from the get-go, it wasn't like 'I want to be a DCC'. I wanted to make it in the dance world and do something that makes me happy. This happened to be it.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Courtney Johnson reflects on how Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders rejection fueled her media career
Courtney Johnson's DCC rejection, though initially disappointing, became a catalyst for her thriving media career (Image via IG) 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!
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Faith Ward? Everything You Need to Know About the First-Ever Kiwi Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader
Faith ward becomes the first Kiwi to join the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (Image credits: IG/X) Faith Ward, a 22-year-old dancer raised in Western Australia, is making headlines worldwide after securing a coveted spot on the legendary Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders roster — becoming the first New Zealander ever to achieve this dream. Her journey from cruise ship stages to one of the NFL's grandest platforms isn't just about fame. It's about the grit, resilience, and personal sacrifices it took for a young woman from Down Under to rise through the ranks of elite performance. 'I've been pushed in ways I never imagined': Faith's honest words resonate While the moment was career-defining, it was Faith's raw and emotional reaction that truly moved fans. Sharing the news with her followers on July 17, she posted: 'This journey has been incredibly challenging, both physically and mentally, but I wouldn't change a thing.' She didn't hold back while reflecting on the months of grueling auditions and high-pressure rehearsals. 'I've been pushed in ways I never imagined, I've learned and grown so much already,' she added, showing a rare glimpse into the reality behind the glitz of the NFL cheer world. Her viral video, capturing friends' tearful celebrations, turned into an instant social media sensation — making her not just a cheerleader but a symbol of global aspiration. Faith Ward's journey from cruise ships to global NFL spotlight Faith began her professional dancing career at just 18, performing aboard international cruise ships. But nothing could prepare her for the intensity and prestige of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team — often dubbed the most famous squad in the world. 'I feel so privileged to stand alongside not only the most talented dancers but also some of the most amazing women I've ever met,' she said in another post, featured on the Netflix docuseries America's Sweethearts. Now performing for crowds of over 90,000 at AT&T Stadium, she has stepped onto a global stage where every move is watched — and celebrated. A Moment for All of Australasia: NFL Cheerleading Sees Kiwi Power Ward is only the third Australian to make the cut and the first-ever Kiwi to wear the famed Cowboys uniform. This isn't just a win for her — it's a moment of pride for aspiring dancers across New Zealand and Australia. She thanked her supporters, writing: 'To my family, friends, coaches, and mentors who have been by my side throughout this entire journey — thank you will never be enough.' From Perth to Texas, her story now belongs to the world — a shining example of where hard work, belief, and talent can take you. Also read: Jerry Jones' daughter Charlotte breaks silence on Cowboys scandal that rocked the NFL FAQs 1. Where is Faith Ward from? Faith was born in New Zealand and raised in Perth, Western Australia. 2. What show is she featured in? Faith appears in Netflix's America's Sweethearts, a docuseries about the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. 3. How old is Faith Ward? She is 22 years old as of July 2025. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
