Monica Aldama: From Competitive Cheer Coach to Executive Producer of Stumble
Monica Aldama, the fierce former competitive cheer coach whose Navarro College squad gained worldwide attention through Netflix’s docuseries Cheer, is stepping into a new realm. She is now involved in NBC’s upcoming comedy, Stumble. Aldama not only plays a pivotal role as an executive producer but also brings her wealth of experience as a cheerleading coach to this new mockumentary sitcom.
How to Watch Stumble
Mark your calendars! The premiere of Stumble is scheduled for Friday, November 7, at 8:30/7:30c on NBC. You can also catch it the following day on Peacock.
A Leadership Role Behind the Scenes
As an executive producer, Aldama collaborates closely with show creators Jeff and Liz Astrof, sharing her unique insights to ensure authenticity in cheerleading portrayals. According to the Astrofs, Aldama’s involvement elevates the quality of the show and provides invaluable guidance throughout the production process. This teamwork doesn’t just reflect her commitment to the program but also enhances the comedic elements, making it relatable for cheerleading enthusiasts and general audiences alike.
The Casting Process: A Talent Search Like No Other
The casting of Stumble was no simple task. Jeff Astrof revealed that approximately 14,000 submissions flooded in for cheerleading roles, with 500 auditions taking place. Many of these hopefuls were auditioning live for the very first time, a challenging feat after years of COVID-related restrictions.
To prepare the cast, they underwent what Jeff called “cheer camp” with Monica Aldama and choreographer Dahlston Delgado. This immersive experience aimed to equip them with vital cheerleading skills, emphasizing the production’s commitment to authenticity. Aldama even had strong opinions during the script development process, insisting on realistic cheerleading moves that enhanced the sitcom’s believability.
Bringing Authenticity to the Screen
Aldama’s desire for authenticity is evident in her on-set presence, where she continuously collaborates with Delgado on cheer sequences. Jeff humorously pointed out that Aldama was so passionate about the cheerleading aspects that she nearly left the project when some of the stunts seemed less than serious.
The energetic environment of the set, driven by Aldama’s expertise, allows the cast to perfect their cheerleading skills while balancing comedic timing. “It’s just so literally uplifting, no pun intended,” Liz Astrof remarked, showcasing the fun dynamic the team strives to create.
A Diverse Cast of Characters
The ensemble cast of Stumble features Jenn Lyon as the fictional cheerleading coach Courteney Potter, alongside Taran Killam as her husband. Notably, the talented Kristin Chenoweth guest stars as Courteney’s former assistant coach, adding a layer of prestige to this budding series.
In the pilot, audiences will meet a diverse cast, including actors like Ryan Pinkston and Anissa Borrego, all bringing unique backgrounds to the team. What makes this production particularly engaging is that most of the primary actors have limited cheer experience, which leads to comedic situations that resonate well with viewers.
Feedback from the Cast: A Glee-like Vibe
Kristin Chenoweth herself expressed that Stumble evoked feelings she had when she first joined Glee — a sense that the cast was part of something special. This sentiment of being “bigger than them” adds excitement and anticipation for the show’s success.
Balancing Cheer Skills with Humor
Despite many cast members lacking extensive cheerleading backgrounds, the show doesn’t shy away from challenging stunts. According to the Astrofs, the main cast applies their dance experience to cheer, creating comedic elements in their performance. Jeff noted that while they attempt various stunts, actual cheerleaders round out the team to ensure safety and authenticity.
The Challenges of Cheerleading Production
One significant obstacle for the show was building a full cheer team beyond just the six main actors. Jeff explained that they had to include professional cheerleaders to handle the more demanding stunts, showcasing a dedication to both safety and the portrayal of elite cheerleading skills on television. This approach allows for spectacular performances, including jaw-dropping stunts that viewers will find thrilling.
Anticipating the Premiere
As Stumble approaches its debut, excitement builds around how Monica Aldama’s experience will enrich the narrative. With its blend of humor, character depth, and real cheerleading challenges, the series promises to deliver an engaging viewing experience. Don’t miss out when the show premieres on November 7 on NBC and streams on Peacock the following day.