Full Breakdown
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Sue My Chemical Romance Over Trademark-Infringing Stage Costumes
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Trademark Lawsuit Over Hollywood Bowl Stunt
Pro Silver Star Ltd., owner of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (DCC) brand, filed a motion for a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction in Dallas County District Court. The filing alleges that My Chemical Romance (MCR) used costumes that “bear an unmistakable resemblance” to the DCC uniform during a staged gun-battle segment of their Hollywood Bowl residency, infringing the trademarked trade dress.
Background & Context
The DCC uniform has been federally registered for more than half a century as a distinctive commercial symbol of the Dallas Cowboys franchise. MCR is touring in 2026 to mark the 20th anniversary of *The Black Parade*. Their Hollywood Bowl show includes a mock-shootout in which dancers wore blue-and-white outfits identical to the DCC look.
Key Figures & Groups
- Pro Silver Star Ltd. – Plaintiff.
- My Chemical Romance – Band whose show featured the disputed costumes.
- Gerard Way – Frontman performing during the segment.
- Stephanie Roberts – Former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader who commented on the dispute.
Timeline
- Oct 21, 2026 – Opening night; dancers in DCC-style uniforms participate in a staged firefight.
- Oct 22, 2026 – Former cheerleader Kylie Dickson posts confusion on social media.
- Oct 23, 2026 – MCR repeats the costume routine.
- Oct 24, 2026 – Additional show planned.
- Oct 30, 2026 – Further scheduled performance.
Data & Statistics
- Shows affected: Five dates (Oct 21, 23, 24, 30, 31).
- Legal filing: Motion for temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction; monetary damages sought but not disclosed.
Official Statements & Responses
Representatives for My Chemical Romance have not responded to requests for comment.
On-the-Ground Reports
A TikTok video posted by Kylie Dickson on Oct 22 highlighted her confusion, noting the performers were not actual Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and questioning any implied endorsement.
Why It Matters
The case pits federal trademark protection of a long-standing sports-entertainment brand against a band’s claim of artistic parody. Courts will assess whether the visual similarity and violent context create a likelihood of consumer confusion or dilution, potentially setting precedent for trademark law in theatrical productions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Damages: Mentioned but not quantified.
- Court outcome: No ruling yet; the injunction remains pending.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Audience members and online commentators understandably believed that the performers were the real Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and said so in social media posts that continue to circulate,” — Pro Silver Star
- “As a DCC alumni, I have a whole lot of nothing to say…,” — Stephanie Roberts
What’s Next
The residency continues on Oct 24, 30, and 31 while the court reviews the restraining order request. Both sides are expected to file further briefs, and the decision will determine whether MCR must alter its stage wardrobe or can rely on a fair-use defense.