Taran Killam’s Transformation in Stumble
Fans of Saturday Night Live will recognize Taran Killam, but those tuning into his new role in NBC’s cheerleading mockumentary, Stumble, might be in for a surprise. Departing from the comedic sketches of SNL, Killam takes on a character that branches into new territory, showcasing a different side of his acting capabilities.
What Makes Stumble Unique
Stumble is set against the vibrant backdrops of Texas and Oklahoma, centered around Boon E. Potter, a junior college football coach. While the show combines elements of humor and drama, it offers a fresh take on scout-worthy cheerleading antics, making it a compelling watch. The series airs on Fridays at 8:30/7:30c on NBC, with streaming available the following day on Peacock.
Crafting a Southern Accent
One of the most notable aspects of Killam’s performance is his authentic Southern drawl. The actor drew inspiration from various sources to perfect Boon’s accent, including his co-star Jenn Lyon, who hails from North Carolina. “Jenn is from the Carolinas and so, following her lead really helps,” Killam remarked. His ability to adapt reflects both his dedication to the role and his natural talent for mimicry.
Beyond Lyon, influences from pop culture also played a part. Killam referenced the hit series Friday Night Lights and even NFL owner Jerry Jones as points of reference for his Texas twang. The combination of these inspirations allowed him to embody his character authentically, explaining, “It’s pretty funny that even in Southern California, you don’t have to drive far to get a little bit of a Southern twang.”
The Learning Curve: Toning Down the Accent
Interestingly, Killam’s journey to the perfect Southern accent wasn’t without its bumps. In the initial stages of filming, his attempt to nail Boon’s accent veered towards the exaggerated. “I went like Jerry Jones, all the way up,” he admitted. Feedback from Stumble‘s executive producer and director, Jeff Blitz, urged him to “soften” the accent, resulting in a more relatable and believable twang for viewers.
The Character of Boon E. Potter
As Boon, Killam navigates the complexities of life as a football coach and a supportive husband to cheerleading coach Courteney Potter, portrayed by Jenn Lyon. This contrasts sharply with the slapstick humor that fans might typically expect from his previous roles, showcasing his versatile range as an actor.
Upcoming Episodes
Fans don’t have to wait long for more of Killam’s work in Stumble. The show is set to return from its winter break with new episodes, including an exciting one on January 16, at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC, and available for streaming on Peacock the next day. The upcoming episode promises to bring more of the charm and humor that audiences have come to love.
As viewers settle in for more of Boon E. Potter’s adventures, Taran Killam continues to evolve as an actor, proving that he is more than just a familiar face from SNL. Through commitment to his craft, he breathes new life into each character he portrays, inviting audiences to see him in a whole new light.