Pom-Poms To Stardom: 17 Celebs Who Rocked The Cheerleading World

Before They Hit the Big Time

Cheerleaders bring the short skirts and school spirit. When the football team falters, it's the cheer squad that rallies the crowd. So, it's no shocker that some of today's biggest stars once shook their pom-poms and revved up school spirit.

Can you believe that musicians and A-listers like Sandra Bullock and Meryl Streep used to cheer on the sidelines? Dive into their stories and find out how they transitioned from high school cheerleaders to household names.

The Early Days of Hollywood Icons

Sandra Bullock – From Cheer to Drama

The "Blindside" actress wasn't always a Hollywood powerhouse. Sandra Bullock got her start cheering and acting in school plays at Washington-Lee High School in Virginia. "Before she was Miss Congeniality, Sandra Bullock starred as a cheerleader and in theater productions," notes Battaglia from Flocheer.

Eva Longoria – Just for Fun

For some stars, cheerleading was a stepping stone to fame, but not for Eva Longoria. Born and raised in Texas, she cheered at Roy Miller High School and Texas A&M Kingsville while earning a degree in kinesiology. Winning the Miss Corpus Christi pageant only added to her fun-filled journey.

Snoop Dogg's "Fly" Actress

This beloved actress was shaking pom-poms before gracing the silver screen. Growing up in Southern California, she attended Long Beach Poly High, where she also launched her modeling career at 16.

From Cheerleading to Stardom

Jessica Simpson – Early Start

For Jessica Simpson, cheering at Richardson North Junior High was the start of her journey. Though she faced setbacks, like freezing during "The Mickey Mouse Club" auditions, she persisted until she was finally discovered.

Miley Cyrus – A Born Performer

Miley Cyrus has transformed from Disney darling to pop sensation. But before all that, she was a cheerleader for the Tennessee Premier soccer team in Franklin. Her journey took a turn after watching a play in Toronto, inspiring her to pursue acting.

Rachael Ray – Culinary Queen with a Cheer Past

Rachael Ray, now a celebrated chef and TV personality, cheered at Lake George High School in New York. Her journey from cheerleader to culinary icon is as spicy as her dishes.

More Stars and Their Cheerleading Roots

Madonna – The Rebel Cheerleader

Madonna's antics were legendary even in school. From cartwheels in the hallways to straight-A grades, she was a force to be reckoned with at Rochester Adams High School.

Jennifer Lawrence – "Nitro" on the Field

Jennifer Lawrence brought her vivacious spirit to Kammerer Middle School's cheer squad. Known as "Nitro," she was as energetic then as she is now.

Megan Fox – Beauty in Pom-Poms

Before she was a Hollywood bombshell, Megan Fox was cheering in Florida. Despite facing bullying, her passion for performance never waned.

Men in Cheer: Breaking Stereotypes

Paul Rudd – From Cheer to Ant-Man

Yes, men can cheer too! Paul Rudd was a "yell leader" at Shawnee Mission West High School in Kansas. Now, as Ant-Man, he's used to donning uniforms.

Kelly Ripa – Bubbly from the Start

With her sunny disposition, it's no surprise Kelly Ripa was a cheerleader. She pursued acting full-time after high school and never looked back.

From Laker Girl to Pop Icon

Paula Abdul – Moves Like No Other

Paula Abdul was a Laker Girl at 18, quickly rising to head choreographer. Her talent caught the eye of The Jacksons, leading to a stellar career in music and dance.

Fergie – The "It" Girl

Fergie's charisma shone through even during her high school cheerleading days. She was a straight-A student and later lent her voice to Peanuts cartoons.

Halle Berry and More

Halle Berry – A Multi-Talented Star

Halle Berry juggled cheerleading, academics, and pageants at Bedford High School. Her diverse talents paved the way for her success in Hollywood.

Lindsay Lohan – Early Fame

Lindsay Lohan's journey from child star to cheerleader was filled with ups and downs. Despite challenges, her early cheer days at Cold Spring Harbor High shaped her path.

Denise Richards – Not Always Glamorous

Denise Richards' cheerleading experience wasn't all glitz. She dealt with "catty" teammates but persevered to find success in acting.

Meryl Streep – A Legend in the Making

Meryl Streep, a "gawky kid" in glasses, found her footing in drama and cheerleading at Bernards High School. Her talent was undeniable, leading her to a remarkable career in acting.