NBC’s ‘Stumble’ Struggles to Impress in Cheerleading Mockumentary

UPDATE: NBC’s new cheerleading mockumentary, ‘Stumble’, has just premiered, and early reviews indicate it’s facing significant hurdles. Viewers tuning in on July 15, 2023 are met with a series that is struggling for coherence and humor, raising questions about its longevity.

In the second episode, elite cheer coach Courteney, portrayed by Jenn Lyon, attempts to inspire her squad with a clichéd pep talk. “Now, when I look at this team, I see grit, determination, heart,” she declares. Unfortunately, the delivery feels uninspired, echoing countless underdog sports narratives without offering anything fresh.

Critics are noting a disjointed narrative that swings between unoriginal jokes and forced sentiment. ‘Stumble’ seems to grapple with its identity, leaving viewers uncertain whether to laugh with or at the characters. The series, created by siblings Liz and Jeff Astrof, struggles to establish a comfortable rhythm across its initial episodes.

Among the cast, Krystal (Anissa Borrego) provides loyal support to Courteney, while the assistant coach, Tammy Istiny, played by Kristin Chenoweth, adds a quirky element with her tiny stature and devious intentions. However, the initial character development feels shallow, with many failing to leave a memorable impression.

The plot thickens as Courteney, who boasts 14 championships, is abruptly fired after a scandalous video leak. This pivotal moment intertwines with her journey to rebuild a cheerleading program at the obscure Heådltston State Junior College, which previously had just one member, Madonna (Arianna Davis), who suffers from narcolepsy.

Throughout the series, the comedic attempts often fall flat, with gags that are either too obvious or bafflingly random. One standout moment involves a character explaining their nickname derived from an incident with a can of cling peaches, yet many jokes lack the same punch and originality.

While some viewers may find charm in the show’s earnestness, the consensus is clear: ‘Stumble’ is struggling to connect. As it tries to establish its footing, the series risks losing its audience amid a flurry of underwhelming humor and lackluster character arcs.

As critics continue to assess the series, the potential for growth remains. New sitcoms often take time to find their voice, but with the first two episodes already met with skepticism, ‘Stumble’ must quickly pivot to avoid becoming irrelevant.

Stay tuned for further updates and reviews as more episodes roll out, and see if ‘Stumble’ can find its stride in the competitive world of television comedy.