NBC’s latest comedy series, Stumble, premiered on November 7, 2023, offering a mockumentary-style look into the world of college cheerleading. The show features elite coach Courteney, played by Jenn Lyon, who attempts to turn a ragtag group of cheerleaders into champions. However, initial reactions suggest that the series struggles with its tone and character development.
In the second episode, Courteney delivers a motivational speech to her squad, stating, “Now, when I look at this team, I see grit, determination, heart.” While this line mirrors countless clichés found in sports narratives, it feels particularly out of place in a show that seems to toggle between humor and heartfelt moments without a clear direction. Critics have pointed out that the show’s attempts at comedy often miss the mark, leading to a viewing experience that is more confusing than entertaining.
Character Development and Overall Tone
The series, created by siblings Liz Astrof and Jeff Astrof, has not fully established whether it aims to satirize its characters or foster genuine connections with them. Successful sitcoms like Abbott Elementary and Parks & Recreation have managed to balance humor and affection, but Stumble has yet to find that equilibrium. The characters, though exaggerated, lack the depth needed to make a lasting impression.
Courteney, an experienced coach with 14 championships, faces an unexpected setback when she is fired due to a scandal involving a leaked video. Her loyal star flyer, Krystal (played by Anissa Borrego), and her scheming assistant coach, Tammy Istiny (portrayed by Kristin Chenoweth), react dramatically to Courteney’s firing. The humor surrounding Tammy’s name, which is pronounced “Iss-tinny,” feels forced and fails to resonate.
After losing her job, Courteney moves to the less prestigious Headltston State Junior College, where the cheerleading program has just one member, Madonna (played by Arianna Davis), who is characterized by her narcolepsy. Courteney’s challenge becomes not only recruiting new cheerleaders but also transforming this motley crew into a competitive team.
Struggles with Humor and Plot
As Courteney assembles her squad, the characters are introduced, but most remain underdeveloped. DiMarcus, a self-absorbed football player, and Peaches, a low-level criminal with a peculiar backstory involving canned peaches, contribute to a collection of eccentric yet forgettable figures. The humor often hinges on predictable setups, with jokes that frequently feel too obvious or disjointed.
The show attempts to blend slapstick with poignant moments, but the shifts in tone can be jarring. While some gags, such as Madonna falling asleep mid-conversation, elicit laughter initially, they quickly lose their charm through repetition. Other jokes, like the blurred action figures of Courteney’s husband Boon (played by Taran Killam), come off as confusing rather than clever.
Despite these issues, Stumble is not entirely without merit. The premise of a mismatched group striving for success has the potential for heartfelt storytelling, reminiscent of classic sports narratives. However, the execution thus far leaves much to be desired.
Critics acknowledge that it is early in the series, with only two episodes available for review. It is common for new sitcoms to take time to find their rhythm and develop characters more deeply. Viewers may still hope for a turn in the show’s fortunes, where the humor sharpens and the emotional arcs become more compelling.
In summary, while Stumble showcases a familiar underdog story, it currently struggles to deliver both humor and heart effectively. The series will need to refine its approach to resonate with audiences and avoid becoming just another forgettable entry in the crowded landscape of television comedies.
