Justine Lindsay joined the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats cheerleading squad in 2022 and made history as the NFL’s first openly transgender cheerleader. Now she reflects on her historic three seasons and shares what comes next.
In a recent interview, Lindsay spoke about her journey and experiences behind the headlines. She shared her early love of dance and training under renowned choreographer Debbie Allen, and what it meant to see cheerleaders like her.
“I wanted to show that we belong in every space, Lindsay said. “That we can bring our talent, our pride, and our authenticity wherever we go.”
Lindsay’s path to the NFL began years earlier. She started dancing as a child and later trained with Debbie Allen, whose mentorship helped her develop both discipline and confidence. “Debbie taught me to move with purpose,” Lindsay said. “Every step has meaning, and that applies to life too.”
During her three seasons with the TopCats, Lindsay became a symbol of progress in professional sports. Fans across the country reached out to share how much her presence meant to them. She represented something greater than football and it was that trans people deserve to be seen and celebrated.
“Representation isn’t just about being seen,” Lindsay said. “It’s about letting others know they’re not alone.”
After three seasons with the Panthers, Lindsay announced she would not return for a fourth. Still, she made it clear that her decision was not about stepping back but moving forward. She is now exploring new creative opportunities, including her dream of portraying LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson on screen.
“This next chapter is about growth,” she said. “I’ve learned so much about who I am and what I can do. Now I want to tell more stories, not just my own.”
“Every time someone like me gets to take up space,” she said, “it opens the door a little wider for the next person.” As she moves forward, Lindsay’s story continues to inspire. Her journey is a reminder that visibility matters and that the courage to show up can change what the future looks like for everyone who follows.
Be the first to comment