It's rare that a TV show comes along and captures people quite like Netflix'sAmerica's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

Between the stunning dance numbers and the women sharing their personal stories, the seven-part series has won over fans across the world, as it shows the audition and training process for what it takes to become a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader.

But if you're like me and can't stop yourself from bingeing a new show in days then most of us have long finished this series. Will there be a season two? The signs are looking positive.

Watch the trailer for Netflix's America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Post continues after video.

Until then, never fear! The iconic DCC are actually no strangers to reality TV — they've starred on a long-running series,Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team, which has a similar feel to the Netflix show, along with featuring some familiar faces, like Kelcey Wetterberg and Victoria Kalina.

And the best news? Australians can watch it right now on Paramount Plus. Huzzah!

What isDallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team,and where can I watch it in Australia?

Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Teamaired on the US cable channel CMT from 2006 to 2021. Like the Netflix docuseries, the reality show gave viewers a glimpse into the gruelling audition process for a coveted spot on the team, along with the drama that unfolded between the hopefuls.

For 16 seasons, hundreds of women with big dreams (and teeny-tiny shorts) battled it out in a fierce competition. From stressful dance auditions to over-the-top interview moments, the show had Americans glued to their screens, rooting for their favourites and sobbing over the shock eliminations.

But it must be stated: this series makes the Netflix version look comparatively tame.

The long-running show is very much a product of its time and reality TV for the mid-'00s was not for the faint of heart.Making the Teamstirred up its fair share of controversy over the years, with viewers left shocked by the strict weight and body standards enforced by director Kelli Finglass and choreographer Judy Trammell.

Listen to Mia Freedman's chat with author and journalist Sarah Hepola about the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders' legacy on No Filter. Post continues after podcast.

Throughout the series, women were regularly pulled aside for "weight talks" or told to tone up specific body parts, leading to criticism about promoting unrealistic beauty ideals.

In one particularly disturbing moment in season eight, a group of women was actually dubbed "the fatties" because they were criticised for their weight gain, which sparked obvious outrage among viewers. The show promoted outdated gender stereotypes with women encouraged to look like the innocent 'girl next door' while being sexy at the same time.

The reality show was often accused of exploiting the women by not shying away from the emotional toll of the audition process. There were plenty of tears, meltdowns, and tantrums when their dreams were crushed — and the cameras showed IT ALL.

The show was accused of mishandling serious issues, like in season 14 when a brief mention of a sexual assault allegation against a former staff member was glossed over.

These moments on the series, tied to some even bigger controversies happening on the team, led toMaking The Teameventually losing favour with the public.

When the series was officially axed in 2022, Kelli released a statement.

"The women who competed and shared their personal journeys should be applauded, those who earn the right to wear the legendary uniform have influence and inspiration that deserves to be shared worldwide," she said.

"My hope is to continue their stories with our fans more globally, as we are in the process of negotiating a new partnership and we look forward to continuing to feature the DCC on a new platform."

And the rest — *cough* the Netflix deal *cough* — is history.

Season three to season 16 ofDallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Teamcan be streamed on Paramount Plus.

Feature image: CMT.

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