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

Review of ‘Stumble’ NBC Mockumentary

The series, featuring Kristin Chenoweth as a recurring guest star, follows an elite coach played by Jenn Lyon leading a team of misfits to a championship.

Plot and Character Dynamics

In the second episode, coach Courteney (Jenn Lyon) addresses her squad:

“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.”

This pep talk feels generic, reminiscent of countless underdog sports stories, often more emotionally engaging and inventive.

Series Tone and Style

The show is a tonal mix, oscillating between underdeveloped jokes and unwarranted sentimentality. Despite this, its earnest effort and cheerful tone create a faint hope that it will improve.

Critical Reception

Critics only received the first two episodes, which try to clarify the straightforward premise but struggle to find a consistent rhythm. It’s often unclear if viewers are meant to laugh at or with the characters.

Author’s Summary

The series attempts humor and heartfelt moments but struggles with tone consistency, leaving audiences unsure if it’s a comedy or a sentimental drama.

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The Hollywood Reporter The Hollywood Reporter — 2025-11-08