EAGAN, Minn. — Social media is abuzz as two men joined the ranks of the Minnesota Vikings cheerleaders.
Blaize Shiek and Louie Conn made their debut on the Viking’s Instagram page last week. Some commenters wrote negative things about the two men and about the team as a whole.
Since then, the Vikings – and many supporters of the additions – have stepped up to support Shiek and Conn. Team officials shared an official statement with the TODAY Show on Monday:
“While many fans may be seeing male cheerleaders for the first time at Vikings games, male cheerleaders have been part of previous Vikings teams and have long been associated with collegiate and professional cheerleading. In 2025, approximately one-third of NFL teams have male cheerleaders,” the statement read. “Every member of the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders program has an impressive dance background and went through the same rigorous audition process. Individuals were selected because of their talent, passion for dance and dedication to elevating the game day experience. We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the role they play as ambassadors of the organization.”
KARE 11 reached out to the Minnesota Vikings and will update this story if further comment is provided.