Jenn Lyon Cast in NBC’s Cheerleading Comedy Pilot Stumble

A Star Leads the Way in a Fresh Take on Competitive Cheer

Jenn Lyon Lands Lead Role in NBC’s New Comedy Pilot

Actress Jenn Lyon has been confirmed as the lead in NBC’s upcoming cheerleading comedy pilot titled Stumble. Best known for her roles in Claws and Justified, Lyon brings a strong comedic presence and nuanced acting ability to the project, which is being positioned as a bold, offbeat addition to NBC’s comedy slate. Her casting signals a confident move by producers looking to blend laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt storytelling.

The Premise: Cheerleading With a Twist

Stumble will explore the chaotic, humorous, and occasionally dramatic world of competitive cheerleading through a unique lens. Rather than glamorizing the sport, the series takes a grounded and comedic look at the high-stakes pressure, interpersonal dynamics, and unfiltered moments that unfold within a cheer squad. The title itself hints at the show’s tone—celebrating imperfection, missteps, and resilience.

Lyon to Portray a Former Cheer Star Turned Coach

In Stumble, Lyon will play a former cheerleading champion whose glory days are behind her. Now navigating adult life and unexpected setbacks, she finds herself reluctantly taking on the role of a cheer coach at her hometown’s struggling program. Her character must confront old rivalries, push through personal insecurities, and wrangle a motley crew of teenage athletes who are just as flawed as she is.

Comedy Meets Heart in This Coming-of-Middle-Age Tale

While Stumble is positioned as a comedy, insiders suggest it will also tackle themes of identity, second chances, and the realities of aging in a youth-obsessed culture. Lyon’s character will serve as both a comedic anchor and emotional center, offering audiences a layered, relatable heroine. The show is expected to blend physical comedy with poignant moments, much like the balance found in series like Ted Lasso and GLOW.

Creative Team with Strong Comedy Credentials

The pilot is being developed by a team of seasoned writers and producers with roots in successful network and streaming comedies. The showrunner, whose previous credits include Brooklyn Nine-Nine and The Good Place, has expressed excitement about working with Lyon. “Jenn brings a rare combination of sharp comedic timing and emotional depth. She’s perfect for this role,” the showrunner stated in a press release.

NBC Expands Its Comedy Slate with Diverse Stories

Stumble marks NBC’s continued investment in broadening the scope of its comedic programming. While the network has long been known for iconic sitcoms like Friends and Parks and Recreation, its recent pilot pickups suggest a shift toward more character-driven, inclusive, and socially aware storytelling. The addition of Stumble to the lineup reflects NBC’s effort to spotlight narratives that are both relevant and entertaining.

Cheerleading as a Mirror for Real Life

Though cheerleading serves as the backdrop, the real story of Stumble lies in its characters’ messy personal lives and evolving relationships. The show will explore themes of community, mentorship, body image, and the pressures placed on women—on and off the mat. Lyon’s character, in particular, is expected to challenge outdated notions of what leadership, success, and fulfillment look like for women in midlife.

Jenn Lyon’s Rise as a Leading Comedic Talent

Lyon’s casting is a testament to her growing prominence in television comedy. After breakout performances in Claws, where she played the fiercely loyal Jennifer Husser, and standout supporting roles in Bluff City Law and Saint George, she has earned a reputation as both a scene-stealer and a leading lady. Stumble will be her first time headlining a network comedy, and fans are eager to see her bring her signature blend of charm and edge to the screen.

Filming and Premiere Timeline

Production on the Stumble pilot is expected to begin this summer in Los Angeles, with a decision on full-season pickup likely to follow in the fall. If greenlit, the series could premiere during NBC’s 2025 midseason or fall programming schedule. Cast announcements for supporting roles are expected in the coming weeks, with a mix of new talent and seasoned actors joining the ensemble.

A Promising Start for a Potential New Favorite

With a standout lead in Jenn Lyon, a compelling concept, and a capable creative team, Stumble has the ingredients to become a breakout hit. As audiences continue to seek comedies that offer both laughter and emotional connection, this cheer-centered series could very well strike the right balance. For Lyon, it marks the next step in an already impressive career—and for NBC, it could be the beginning of their next signature show.