Cheerleading TV Shows

While cheerleading is often at the center of debates about whether or not it’s a sport, there’s no denying that the entertainment industry loves to feature cheerleaders in television shows and movies. From high school dramas to reality cheerleading shows, these scripted and reality tv shows show how much fun and heart goes into the sport.

Cheer Squad

This Netflix series followed the Navarro College cheerleading team in Corsicana, Texas. The elite team already had two world championships under their belt, but this season was all about defending their title. From preparing for a competition to bickering between teammates, Cheer Squad showed how intense and competitive the cheerworld can be.

Bring It On, 2001

The 2001 teen film was not only about cheerleading, but also bank robbery! The movie is part of a genre of dark comedy films that include Jawbreaker and Drop Dead Gorgeous, and it follows a young girl who is recruited to become the lead cheerleader on her school’s football team. The film is not only hilarious, but also debunked many of the myths about high school cheerleading that persist today.

Sugar & Spice, 2012

A teenage girl is the star of this CW show that aired in 2012. The character, played by Natasha Lyonne, was the best high school cheerleader with a jock for a boyfriend. But her world is turned upside down when her family discovers that she’s gay. The series delved into issues that are still relevant to young women today and was nominated for an Emmy for its portrayal of teenage life in America.