‘Stumble’ Review: NBC Returns to Mockumentaries with a Cheerful Take on Junior College Cheerleading
If you can still recall the sassy opening chant from the 2000 teen cult favorite Bring It On (“I’m sexy, I’m cute! I’m everything you’re not…”), then NBC’s new mockumentary Stumble may be your next guilty pleasure. The series dives into the bright and bruised world of collegiate cheerleading through the eyes of an endlessly determined coach.
Plot and Setting
The story follows experienced coach Courteney Potter, portrayed with dry wit by Jenn Lyon, known for her role in TNT’s Claws. After being dismissed from her position at Sammy Davis Sr. Junior College in Wichita Flats, Texas, she faces humiliation when a viral video surfaces from a raucous victory party featuring drinks, the squad, and a joking “Best Booty” award presentation.
Courteney soon finds new footing at a small junior college in the fictional Heådltston, Oklahoma. The challenge? The school has no cheer team, and its unknown town struggles to be taken seriously beyond its one claim to fame — a candy-button factory.
Cast and Performances
- Jenn Lyon brings understated humor as Courteney Potter.
- Taran Killam and Kristin Chenoweth join the cast, adding comedic punch to the mockumentary’s documentary-style storytelling.
- Jeff Hiller, the Emmy-winning actor from Somebody Somewhere, appears as candy factory owner Augustus in a guest role.
Style and Tone
Stumble adopts the classic mockumentary tone, blending awkward interviews, deadpan delivery, and chaotic comedic timing to explore ambition, competition, and redemption — with plenty of pom-poms and pratfalls.
“The series offers a quirky, tongue-in-cheek take on small-town spirit and second chances in the unpredictable world of junior college cheerleading.”
Summary
Jenn Lyon shines in this offbeat mockumentary that turns the harsh, glittering world of college cheer into a character-driven comedy about resilience, reinvention, and misplaced trophies.
Author’s summary: NBC’s Stumble humorously deconstructs the cheerleading craze through a sharp, mockumentary lens, turning personal setbacks into spirited, satirical triumphs.