Apple TV+ has introduced a fresh face to its lineup of sports comedies with the debut of "Stick," a series starring Owen Wilson as Pryce Cahill, a washed-up former professional golfer seeking redemption through coaching a promising young talent. Premiering on June 4, 2025, the show offers a blend of heartfelt moments and humor, set against the backdrop of the golf world.
Created by Jason Keller, "Stick" follows the journey of Pryce Cahill, nicknamed "Stick," a man in his mid-50s whose once-promising golf career fizzled after a mid-career meltdown. Now, he finds himself down on his luck, hustling in bars and navigating a complicated personal life marked by verbal sparring with his ex-wife, Amber-Linn, played by Judy Greer. Despite his setbacks, Pryce's life takes a hopeful turn when he encounters Santiago "Santi" Wheeler, portrayed by Peter Dager, a teenage golf prodigy with the potential to become a professional golfer.
Embracing the role of coach, Pryce embarks on a mission to guide Santi toward greatness, finding in this mentorship a chance for his own redemption. The series explores themes of grief, failure, and second chances, with Wilson's Texan charm lending warmth and relatability to the character. Marc Maron appears as Mitts, Pryce's gruff but loyal former caddy and best friend, adding depth and humor to the narrative. Mariana Treviño plays Elena, Santi's mother, while Lilli Kay joins the cast as Zero, a character introduced in the third episode. Timothy Olyphant is also featured in the series, rounding out a strong ensemble cast.
Notably, the show incorporates appearances by real professional golfers such as Collin Morikawa, Keegan Bradley, Max Homa, and Wyndham Clark, who appear as themselves, adding authenticity to the golfing scenes. The series is structured as a 10-episode season, with the first three episodes—"Pilot," "Grossweiner’s Law," and "Daddy Issues"—released simultaneously on June 4. Subsequent episodes are scheduled to roll out weekly on Wednesdays, with the final episode set to air on July 23, 2025.
"Stick" offers viewers a familiar underdog sports story reminiscent of beloved shows like "Ted Lasso," though it carves out its own niche by focusing on golf and the personal struggles of its lead character. Critics have noted that while the series delivers heartfelt moments and Wilson's signature charm, it sometimes leans on clichés and character superficiality. One review described it as a "lighthearted watch with the right intentions, but it’s no ace," suggesting that fans of Wilson's persona might find the show particularly enjoyable.
Another perspective highlights the show's blend of comedy and drama, noting that "Stick" is a golfified riff on "Ted Lasso" that explores the journey of a flawed protagonist trying to find his footing once again. The narrative delves into Pryce's emotional baggage and his efforts to rebuild his life through coaching, though some viewers find the storyline and character motivations somewhat unclear or uneven in the early episodes.
Owen Wilson himself has spoken about the series during an interview with Nate Burleson at Liberty National Golf Club, sharing insights into his character and the show's themes of redemption and personal growth. Wilson, an Academy Award-nominated actor, brings authenticity to the role, drawing from his own love of golf and experiences.
Apple TV+ has gained a reputation for producing well-received comedies such as "Ted Lasso," "Shrinking," and "The Studio," and "Stick" aims to join this roster as a crowd-pleasing favorite. The show’s release strategy, with initial multiple episodes followed by weekly installments, encourages sustained viewer engagement and conversation.
For golf enthusiasts and fans of character-driven sports dramas, "Stick" presents an opportunity to explore the complexities of ambition, failure, and mentorship within the unique setting of professional golf. The series balances moments of levity with emotional depth, inviting audiences to root for an underdog who is as flawed as he is endearing.
As the season progresses, viewers can look forward to episodes that further develop the relationships between Pryce, Santi, and the supporting cast, while also showcasing the challenges and triumphs inherent in the sport. The show's blend of real-world golf personalities and fictional storytelling offers a layered experience that appeals to both casual viewers and golf aficionados.
In a television landscape often dominated by high-stakes dramas and intense narratives, "Stick" provides a refreshing change of pace. It reminds audiences that sometimes, the most compelling stories are those about second chances, personal growth, and the simple joy of the game.
With five episodes remaining in its first season, "Stick" invites viewers to follow Pryce Cahill's journey from the rough back into the spotlight, proving that even when life seems to have dealt a tough hand, there’s always a chance to swing back.
