Anissa Borrego Is in Her Comedy Era — And Stumble Is the Proof

By Kyra Greene

Anissa Borrego radiates the kind of energy that instantly makes sense for Stumble: vibrant, fearless, and joyfully committed to the bit. As Krystal—equal parts show-stopping cheerleader, walking ray of sunshine, and chaotic inspiration—Borrego steps into a mockumentary world that thrives on both heart and hilarity. What could have been a simple comedic pivot becomes something deeper: a chance to explore resilience, timing, ensemble chemistry, and the balance between authenticity and performance. In conversation with GREAY Magazine, Borrego opens up about finding her comedic voice, returning to her cheer roots, learning from her castmates, and building a character who sparkles even through injury, doubt, and emotional complexity.

“Stumble” is such a fun shift in tone. What initially attracted you to the series, and what made you say yes to joining this world? 

Stumble had me at cheerleading and HOOKED me with every other aspect that makes this show amazing. Hilarious writing, working with the Monica Aldama, on and off camera, a dream team. It’s been some of the greatest moments of my life working on this show. Fun times are ALWAYS had. Also, my cast mates are insanely multi-talented and I love people who inspire me to grow. 

Your character Krystal navigates a major injury while still trying to stay connected to the team. How did you approach balancing her vulnerability with the show’s comedic tone? 

Krystal was going through a rough time with the injury… but the cameras are on and her fans are watching… She wants her fans to see the motivational story, the resilience. Her vulnerability isn’t always shown explicitly. It’s best showcased in her willingness to give her absolute best and show up with a smile on her face even when she is not feeling her best, doubted by others, and not performing at her fullest potential. If you forget, Krystal will show you why she’s a star, injury or not. 

You’ve worked across different genres — drama, comedy, and everything in between. How has joining a mockumentary-style sitcom challenged or expanded your craft? 

It’s so fun and this is my first time doing so many ensemble scenes. It’s really interesting being able to explore and live in the moment and make discoveries in this setting. Also, finding the balance of allowing Krystal to shine (she is a not-so-subtle girly in a genre that thrives on the subtle)while also giving space and honoring the scene as a whole. 

The ensemble on “Stumble” is incredibly dynamic. What has collaborating with this cast taught you about comedic timing and improvisation? 

TEN TOES DOWN. Some of my favorite moments from this cast have been bold choices made with full confidence. I am always all for going for it, if it feels right. If you get a redirect, that’s fine. But when it works, it feels like magic. 

Are there any personal experiences or quirks of your own that you’ve infused into Krystal, even subtly? 

The show woman in me, the performer, the cheerleader, the flavor that comes with being a cheerleader and being surrounded by cheerleaders. With this role it really reawakened this in me and it’s VERY ALIVE in Krystal. Also, the baby hearts and the blowing of kisses. That’s very much true to both of us! 

What’s the most surprising or memorable thing that has happened behind the scenes so far while filming “Stumble”?

 The beautiful thing is that these memorable moments happen every day. But! A fun example is on our first day returning to set after the pilot, someone said something that led one person to start singing “Golden” from K-pop Demon Hunters, then another person, and then we are in a gym full of people singing Golden! It was one of my favorite moments and the best way to kick off a season of filming! 

Looking at your career up to this point, where do you feel this role falls in your evolution as an actor?

 I feel like this role couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m at a point in my life where I am particularly drawn to comedy. I love all of it, but the timing for this feels so right for me. I was in exactly the place I needed to be in to serve Krystal when she came along. My last two jobs were reminders that I can dream more specifically… I have always been a dreamer… but a Pixar movie?… A cheerleading mockumentary!!!??? This has always been the plan and what I’ve worked towards, but what a blessing  that it’s coming to fruition. Also, I’ve done a lot of improv in my adult life so it’s fun to work in a format that gives a little more freedom for it. 

Who are some performers or shows in the comedy space that have influenced the way you approached your role on “Stumble”? 

The SUPERSTAR herself MARY KATHERINE GALLAGHER played my Molly Shannon. Will Ferrell’s BUDDY THE ELF, Spongebob, my dad. All major influences in my life and in my comedic sensibilities. Also, that kid Kavan Pardo who went to school with me and had the oddest most interesting sense of humor. But for Krystal specifically, I was inspired by Jane Krakowski’s Jenna Maroney from NBC’s 30 Rock, Ariana Grande’s star power presence, Anna Faris in her ability to give truth to the absolutely ridiculous. 

Outside of acting, what creative passions or projects are you diving into that your fans might not know about? 

I’m yoga teacher certified! I am a huge advocate for yoga especially coming from high impact sports… I had pains in my body since I was a kid that I thought I’d have forever that went away with yoga. It makes me a better person in the world, and it’s given me such a healthy relationship to myself, mentally, spiritually, in every way. Also, I love baking, singing and dancing. 

If you could design your dream next role, what kind of character or story would you want to explore after “Stumble”? 

I’ve always wanted to make an adventure movie a la Harold and Kumar. I love a buddy adventure movie. I also have always wanted to be a “Who” just living the life in whoville as a 20 something year old woman. Also, Ms. Honey from Matilda…. I can really go on and on with this one

Anissa Borrego is unmistakably in her element—playful, precise, and rooted in a love for storytelling that spans from improv spontaneity to heartfelt character work. With Stumble, she steps into a role that feels both destiny-aligned and creatively expansive, merging her cheerleading past with her comedic instincts in a way that makes Krystal unforgettable. And yet, this feels like just the beginning. Whether she’s dreaming up Whoville adventures, teaching yoga, or chasing the next big comedic leap, Borrego brings a presence that’s magnetic, joyful, and distinctly her own. Stumble may be the catalyst, but Anissa Borrego’s star power is only growing brighter from here.

Photo By Emily Malan @emilymalan

Hair By Dom Forletta @domforletta

Make up By Kirin Bhatty  @kirinstagram

Styling By Marissa Pelly @marissapelly