Awareness on the Field: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Removes Her Wig on Monday Night Football to Inspire a Movement

Armani Latimer in cheer uniform without a wig - Credit: Kevin Jairaj

Sierra Pope | Multimedia News Intern

4-minute Read

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas – As a young girl, Armani Latimer’s family would cruise to many exotic places, and her vacation hairstyle would always consist of a single braid. Yet, one day at the age of 11, Latimer’s mother began to unravel the braid and noticed a bald spot. The two were shocked and concerned, knowing Latimer’s father struggled with hair loss. 

After meeting with a dermatologist at 12 years old, Latimer was diagnosed with alopecia areata, a condition that causes my immune system to attack my hair follicles, resulting in occasional bald spots that seemed to become bigger with stress.

“My mother tried to help me adjust to my new normal by not making me feel like it was a big deal,” Latimer explained. “And when I was a child, it wasn't. I didn’t have many bald spots, and the ones I did have—on the center of my head and the nape of my neck—were easy to cover up with mom's help. But the older I got, the more pronounced they became.”

Armani Latimer posing amid a photoshoot - Credit: Sabrina Talbert

In 2020, Latimer fulfilled one of her biggest dreams by joining the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders—a world-renowned team known for its precision, pride, and iconic performances.

"We can be empowered by so many things—you don’t need hair to feel that," Latimer stated. "Just because you're different, just because you may look a certain way or you're going through something in your life personally, don't let that hold you back from going out and trying out for your dream team or achieving your goals."

For the first time, back in December 2024, Latimer, the fifth-year veteran, performed without her wig on ESPN’s Monday Night Football at the AT&T Stadium.

Fans cheered loudly as she danced her heart out, leaving everything on the field. She overcame her biggest insecurities in front of millions, which encouraged young dancers to embrace their differences.

“People see cheerleaders and assume they're flawless,” Latimer revealed. “While that's obviously not true, I still found myself having to unlearn the idea that I needed to be perfect to be on the team.”

Armani Latimer taking her wig off amid a photoshoot - Credit: Sabrina Talbert

“Overall, my team and my family helped me maintain a positive mindset,” Latimer said. “I wouldn't be anywhere without my support system, and I always want to provide support for those who don’t have any. On those days when you can’t be 100 percent, you need people who lift you up and help you be your best. I don’t believe we’re supposed to do life alone, and without my people, I wouldn’t have been able to break boundaries and be the woman I am today.”

Latimer’s game day debut was not just a performance; it was a powerful declaration. By showing up as her full self, she redefined what confidence looks like on one of the world’s biggest stages. In that moment, she danced to start an evolution rooted in visibility, courage, and individuality.