‘Stumble’ Review: NBC Doubles Down on Mockumentaries With a Spirited Sitcom About Junior College Cheerleading
If you count yourself among those who can still quote the entire witty opening cheer from the 2000 cult favorite Bring It On, you might be ready for a new comedy centered on pom-poms and pep. NBC’s new mockumentary series Stumble takes a lively but unflinching look at the chaotic world of competitive junior college cheerleading.
Main Plot
At the heart of the show is Courteney Potter, portrayed by Jenn Lyon of Claws. Once a celebrated cheerleading coach at Sammy Davis Sr. Junior College in Wichita Flats, Texas, Courteney is abruptly fired after a viral after-party video surfaces—complete with alcohol, her squad, and a questionable “Best Booty” award.
She soon lands a new position at a struggling junior college in the fictional town of Heådltston, Oklahoma. The only problem? The school has no cheer team, and hardly anyone can pronounce the town’s name. Its only real claim to fame is a candy-button factory.
Performances and Supporting Cast
Along with Lyon, the series features Taran Killam and Kristin Chenoweth. The cast delivers sharp comedic timing that matches the mockumentary tone perfectly. Additional excitement comes from a guest appearance by the newly crowned Emmy winner Jeff Hiller, who will play Augustus, the owner of the local candy-button factory.
Style and Tone
Stumble embraces the documentary-style humor that NBC has made a trademark, mixing biting satire with genuine heart. The show dances between absurdity and charm, offering both slapstick moments and emotional undercurrents about redemption and purpose.
“A cockeyed look at the high-kicking, high-flying world of competitive college cheerleading — and all the bone-crushing injuries and soul-crushing setbacks that come with it.”
Author’s Summary
NBC’s Stumble blends mockumentary humor and heartfelt storytelling, following a fallen coach’s unlikely comeback in the eccentric world of junior college cheerleading.