‘Stumble’ Review: NBC’s Competitive Cheerleading Mockumentary Is Hardly a Winner

The show, featuring Kristin Chenoweth in a recurring role, follows an ambitious coach, portrayed by Jenn Lyon, guiding a group of mismatched athletes toward a national cheerleading title. Created by siblings Liz Astrof and Jeff Astrof, the comedy aims for energy and charm but struggles to balance wit and emotion.

Uneven Tone and Execution

By the second episode, coach Courteney (Jenn Lyon) tries to motivate her chaotic team with typical sports-drama enthusiasm.

“Now, when I look at this team, I see grit, determination, heart,” she says. “That’s what people are going to want to be here to be part of.”

It’s a familiar pep talk, the kind you’ve heard in countless underdog stories, yet here it lands awkwardly—more setup than sincerity. That tonal uncertainty defines much of Stumble, which shifts uncomfortably between flat jokes and forced sentimentality.

Trying Hard Without Landing

The series wants to win over its audience through exuberance and optimism, but both early episodes focus so much on setting up a basic premise that they never find an authentic rhythm. As a result, it’s unclear whether the viewer is meant to laugh with the characters or at them—a confusion that undercuts the show’s punchlines.

Final Impression

Stumble feels like a mockumentary that hasn’t quite found its balance. Despite its enthusiasm and likable cast, the execution wavers, leaving viewers waiting for a spark that never fully ignites.

Author’s Summary: A bright concept and eager performances can’t rescue Stumble from uneven tone and weak humor, though its earnest energy makes it hard to dismiss completely.

The Hollywood Reporter — 2025-11-08