A quarter of a century has passed since the Toros first took to the podium, but 'Bring It On' continues to rally fans with its infectious spirit and razor-sharp wit. Now, to mark the film's 25th anniversary, the shocking scenes that were left on the cutting room floor have finally been brought into the spotlight.
The iconic cheerleading comedy, which launched Kirsten Dunst and Gabrielle Union into superstardom, was originally packed with even more risqué and controversial content. Director Peyton Reed recently divulged the details of sequences that Universal Pictures executives ultimately deemed too outrageous for the year 2000 audience.
The Shower Scene That Steamed Up the Screen
Perhaps the most tantalising cut involved a much more suggestive shower scene. The original script called for the Toros squad to be filmed in a communal shower, a moment intended to be a direct homage to the sports classic 'Slap Shot'.
"We actually shot a version of that," Reed confirmed, noting the scene was designed to echo the raw, behind-the-scenes camaraderie seen in hockey films. However, studio brass quickly nixed the idea, fearing it crossed a line from playful cheekiness into inappropriate territory for the film's teen audience.
A 'Slut-Shaming' Storyline That Was Rightfully Benched
In a move that highlights how much cultural sensitivities have evolved, Reed revealed a major storyline that was entirely scrapped during production. The plot involved a rumour spreading through the school that Missy (Eliza Dushku) had performed a sexual act on the entire football team.
This 'slut-shaming' narrative was intended to be a central conflict but was wisely abandoned. Reed admitted the concept was a relic of many teen movies of the era but ultimately felt "gross" and misaligned with the film's more empowering message. The writer's strike during production forced a rewrite, leading to a sharper, more focused script that celebrated female ambition instead of tearing it down.
From Cult Classic to Cultural Touchstone
Despite—or perhaps because of—these cuts, 'Bring It On' perfected its formula. It became a surprise box office hit, grossing $90 million against a $11 million budget, and has since cemented its status as a timeless cult classic.
Its legacy is undeniable, sparking a franchise of sequels and a successful stage musical. The film is celebrated not just for its quotable one-liners and impressive choreography, but for its surprisingly sharp commentary on cultural appropriation, ambition, and the complex dynamics of teenage life.
Twenty-five years on, the spirit of the Toros and the Clovers is far from retired. It seems some cheers, and some edits, are truly forever.
