NBC’s ‘Stumble’: A Heartfelt Mockumentary Spotlighting Cheer Team’s Tumbling Triumphs
NBC’s newest comedy series, “Stumble,” offers a unique and heartfelt glimpse into the world of competitive cheerleading. Developed by sibling writers Jeff and Liz Astrof, this mockumentary showcases a diverse group of recruits forming a cheer team at a junior college nestled in an obscure Oklahoma town. The series balances humor with emotional depth, reflecting the inspiring journey of its eclectic characters.
Plot Overview
The series features Jenn Lyon as a passionate cheer coach struggling to secure one more trophy to become the winningest coach in college cheer history. Thrust into an unconventional gym, she faces challenges, including a dead opossum and a motley crew of aspiring cheerleaders. The team includes:
- A football star with a controversial past
- A young man with narcolepsy
- A 37-year-old rental car manager lacking a degree
- A felon wearing an ankle monitor
- A teenager coping with a chaotic home life
Thematic Elements
Stumble’s creators emphasize trust as a central theme. In competitive cheer, each member relies on the others for safety and success. Liz Astrof notes that the series explores how these characters learn to trust themselves and each other amid their struggles.
Mockumentary Style
This show builds on NBC’s successful legacy of comedic mockumentaries, likening its style to hits like “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation.” The inspiration partly comes from the Netflix docuseries “Cheer,” which followed a Texas cheer team in their pursuit of victory. The Astrof siblings wanted to capture the underdog spirit seen in stories of those overcoming adversity.
Main Cast and Guest Appearances
Alongside Lyon, Taran Killam plays a supportive husband and football coach. Notable guest star Kristin Chenoweth appears as assistant coach Tammy Istiny, further elevating the ensemble. The pilot episode focuses on building the cheer team, while subsequent episodes will address the challenges they face as they pursue their goal.
Production and Background
“Stumble” represents the first collaborative venture between Jeff and Liz Astrof in television writing. Their previous works spanned various successful series, establishing their reputation in the industry. The siblings share a comedic chemistry, often joking about their family dynamics and the roots of their humor.
Conclusion
With its blend of comedy, heartfelt storytelling, and unique characters, “Stumble” strives to resonate with audiences. The series debuts on NBC and will be available for streaming on Peacock the following day, making it a can’t-miss proposition for fans of heartfelt mockumentaries.
