‘Stumble’ Review: NBC’s Cheerleading Mockumentary Sitcom
Jenn Lyon, Taran Killam, and Kristin Chenoweth star in NBC’s new mockumentary comedy series, Stumble. The show offers a quirky, spirited take on the world of competitive college cheerleading, blending humor with the physical and emotional challenges athletes face.
Plot Overview
The series follows Courteney Potter, a celebrated cheerleading coach played by Jenn Lyon, known for her deadpan style in Claws. After a viral video at a victory party leads to her firing from Sammy Davis Sr. Junior College in Wichita Flats, Texas, she lands a new coaching job at a junior college in the fictional town of Heådltston, Oklahoma.
Heådltston is best known for its candy-button factory but lacks a cheer team. Courteney is determined to find and build a new squad despite the town’s peculiar name, which no one can pronounce.
Notable Elements
- The show combines the high-energy, competitive spirit of cheerleading with comedic mockumentary style.
- It includes bone-crushing injuries and soul-crushing setbacks, highlighting the sport's challenges alongside humor.
- Jeff Hiller, Emmy winner for Somebody Somewhere, guest stars as Augustus, the local factory owner.
"If you’re one of the fans who can recite the entire cheeky opening cheer from the 2000 teen cult classic flick ‘Bring It On’ (‘I’m sexy, I’m cute! I’m everything you’re not…’), you deserve a spirit stick."
Production and Availability
Only the first two episodes were available for review, but the series promises a blend of fun and heart in a niche yet relatable setting.
Summary
Stumble blends mockumentary humor with the highs and lows of junior college cheerleading, featuring strong performances and a quirky small-town charm.
Author’s summary: NBC’s Stumble delivers a fresh, witty take on competitive cheerleading with deadpan humor and heartfelt moments in a small-town setting.