‘Stumble’ Review: NBC Doubles Down on Mockumentaries With Spirited Sitcom About Junior College Cheerleading
Jenn Lyon, Taran Killam, and Kristin Chenoweth star in NBC's new mockumentary-style comedy, Stumble. The show offers a quirky look at the competitive world of college cheerleading, blending humor with the harsh realities of injuries and setbacks.
Plot and Setting
The story follows Courteney Potter, a deadpan cheerleading coach played by Jenn Lyon („Claws“), who is abruptly fired from her job at Sammy Davis Sr. Junior College in Wichita Flats, Texas. This happens after a viral video of a victory party involving alcohol and a “Best Booty” award causes controversy.
Determined to continue coaching, Courteney takes a position at a junior college in the fictional town of Heådltston, Oklahoma. The town is known for its candy-button factory, but unfortunately, the college doesn’t have a cheer team, and even pronouncing the town’s name is a challenge.
Cast Highlights and Guest Stars
- Jenn Lyon leads with a delightfully deadpan performance as Courteney Potter.
- Jeff Hiller, an Emmy winner for “Somebody Somewhere,” guest stars as Augustus, the candy factory owner.
Notable Elements
Stumble uses its mockumentary style to highlight the ups and downs of cheerleading with a blend of sharp wit and heartfelt moments. Only the first two episodes were available for review, but they promise an entertaining spin on the genre.
“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.”
With its unique setting and charming cast, Stumble invites viewers into the unexpected world of junior college cheerleading, delivering both laughs and relatable challenges.
Author’s summary: Stumble cleverly captures the chaotic spirit of junior college cheerleading, mixing comedy and mockumentary style with strong performances and witty writing.
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