KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Not long ago, Sophia Brown was living in a small Kansas City suburb with a big dream.
Now, she’s one of the most recognizable faces in professional dance — cheering on the sidelines of NFL games, appearing on national television, and starring in a Netflix series watched around the world.
Sophia is starting her third year as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader.(Courtesy of Sophia Brown)
Season three of America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is now streaming on Netflix, and Brown says the experience still feels surreal.
“Every time a new season drops, you’re just kind of on this high,” Brown told KCTV5. “I was driving in my car yesterday and I feel like you’re just on — or in Netflix — at all times.”
From Kearney to Cowboys Nation
Brown grew up in Kearney, Missouri, and graduated from Kearney High School before chasing one of the biggest stages in professional dance. She says the small-town roots have kept her grounded.
“It’s kept me that small town girl in a big city,” she said.
Sophia’s dreams took her from a small Missouri town to the big city of Dallas, Texas.(Haleigh King | Courtesy of Sophia Brown)
Now in her third year with the squad, Brown says the journey from rookie to veteran has been transformative.
“Your rookie year, you feel a little helpless, a little clueless, but it’s so new,” she said. “My second year was so fun because you kind of get to relax. You get to breathe because you know what to expect.”
A Global Spotlight
The Netflix docu-series has taken the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders from a regional fan favorite to a worldwide phenomenon. Brown says the recognition still catches her off guard.
“You go to the grocery store, I go home to Missouri, I went to eat, and people are asking to take pictures,” she said. “You get imposter syndrome. You’re like, wait, am I supposed to be here?”
The show’s reach extends far beyond the United States. Brown’s mother is from Italy, and her family overseas watches every episode.
“It reaches all kinds of countries,” Brown said. “It’s really cool that you’re not only affecting the people in the United States, but all across the world.”
Sophia is entering her third season as DCC.(Courtesy of Sophia Brown)
The exposure has also opened new doors for the cheerleaders — from national TV appearances to social media opportunities.
“I got to be on Jimmy Fallon,” Brown said. “Social media has become a really big part, and a lot of girls have been really diving fully into being an influencer because we’re so blessed to have this exposure.”
Handling the Pressure
Performing in front of packed NFL stadiums comes with intense pressure. Brown says her faith is what keeps her centered.
“If I did not have God, I could not do this,” she said. “I know my worth comes from him, and that kind of takes the pressure off of always trying to make sure you’re doing enough.”
Sophia is thankful for the opportunities she’s had through the Dallas Cowboys cheerleading team.(Courtesy of Sophia Brown)
She also leans on her teammates and the special bond she has with each of them.
“We all stand together and cheer each other on,” Brown said. “We are just our biggest cheerleaders.”
What to Expect in Season 3
Brown says viewers can expect an emotional, entertaining ride in the new season.
“You can expect to just experience a lot of joy and happiness and laughter — it’s a funny season,” she said. “But you also hear a little bit about the hate we get and just how we handle that.”
A Message to Young Dancers in KC
For the young dancers in Kansas City dreaming of following in her footsteps, Brown has a simple message.
“Go for it,” she said. “The one regret you’ll have is not going for it. You are never too unqualified or too little from a small town. You can do it.”
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