‘Stumble’ Review: NBC’s Competitive Cheerleading Mockumentary Falls Short
The series, featuring Kristin Chenoweth as a recurring guest star, follows elite coach Courteney, played by Jenn Lyon, who tries to lead a team of quarrelsome misfits toward a championship.
Premise and Tone
Late in the second episode of NBC’s college cheerleading mockumentary, Stumble, Courteney addresses her team:
“Now, when I look at this team, I see grit, determination, heart. That’s what people are going to want to be here to be part of.”
Her pep talk feels standard—typical of countless underdog sports narratives, often delivered with more creativity or emotional depth. Yet here, it comes across as uneasy, like a setup for a joke that never lands. This reflects the series itself, created by siblings Liz Astrof (Pivoting) and Jeff Astrof (Shining Vale).
Strengths and Weaknesses
The comedy struggles with inconsistent tone, veering between half-baked jokes and forced sentiment. Despite its flaws, the show’s earnest effort and cheerful energy make you hope it might eventually find its rhythm.
The preview given to critics—only the first two episodes—may have hindered a comfortable pacing, as both episodes work hard to establish the straightforward premise without settling into a smooth groove.
From the beginning, it is unclear whether the audience is meant to laugh at the characters or with them, which undercuts the series' impact.
Creators and Cast
- Creators: Liz Astrof (Pivoting) and Jeff Astrof (Shining Vale)
- Lead: Jenn Lyon as coach Courteney
- Recurring guest star: Kristin Chenoweth
Author’s summary: Despite its sincere effort, Stumble struggles with tone and character clarity, making it hard to connect with this cheerleading mockumentary’s comedic and emotional aims.