Apple TV+ Bets on a New Hit with Golf Comedy Stick Starring Owen Wilson

As Apple TV+ continues to dominate the streaming scene with its innovative and diverse content lineup, the platform is set to unveil a new show that could hit the sweet spot for fans of heartwarming comedies. With its roots in sports and a sense of community, “Stick” is shaping up to be the latest contender in the race for the next “Ted Lasso” success. The series brings together a blend of humor, human connection, and the world of golf, making it a promising addition to Apple TV+’s already impressive array of offerings.

Apple’s new golf comedy, Stick, arrives at the perfect time, following the success of the immensely popular Ted Lasso. Starring Owen Wilson, the show takes viewers into the life of an over-the-hill ex-pro golfer, Pryce Cahill, who finds his career derailed and life in shambles. In a bid to reclaim his lost glory, Pryce stakes everything on mentoring a troubled 17-year-old golf prodigy named Santi. Premiering on June 4, with its first three episodes, Stick promises to tug at heartstrings just like its predecessor, Ted Lasso.

Apple’s strategy to build upon the success of Ted Lasso with Stick is evident, with the series’ feel-good, sports-centered theme mirroring the spirit that made Ted Lasso a worldwide phenomenon. The premise sets the stage for compelling character growth, relationships, and emotional depth, which have become hallmark elements of Apple TV+’s winning formula.

The Plot and What to Expect from Stick

Stick follows the journey of Pryce Cahill, portrayed by Owen Wilson, an ex-golfer whose career ended abruptly 20 years ago. After facing a string of personal and professional failures, including the breakdown of his marriage and the loss of his job, Pryce finds himself at a crossroads in life. In an attempt to regain some sense of purpose, he focuses all his energy on coaching a troubled, yet talented 17-year-old golfer, Santi, portrayed by Peter Dager.

The show promises to explore themes of redemption, mentorship, and healing through the sport of golf, with the character-driven narrative forming the heart of the series. As they navigate their complex relationship, Pryce and Santi build an unconventional family, drawing on the strong emotional beats that made Ted Lasso a breakout hit. The “found family” theme is front and center, setting the stage for an emotional, uplifting journey for both the characters and viewers.

What Undercode Says:

Apple TV+ seems to have found a winning formula in Ted Lasso, and with Stick, the streaming service is doubling down on the feel-good, heartwarming sports comedy genre. The similarities between Stick and Ted Lasso are immediately apparent: both shows feature flawed yet endearing lead characters who take on the role of coaches, struggling with their own personal issues while trying to uplift others. This formula resonated strongly with audiences, turning Ted Lasso into a massive cultural phenomenon.

While Stick clearly shares thematic DNA with its predecessor, it introduces a fresh, golf-based setting. The sport of golf, often associated with high stakes and personal pressure, provides an ideal backdrop for exploring themes of failure and second chances. The addition of Owen Wilson, known for his charm and comedic timing, offers a promising lead for the series. His portrayal of a washed-up golfer looking for redemption seems like the perfect mix of comedy and drama, reminiscent of the lighthearted yet deeply emotional moments in Ted Lasso.

The character of Santi adds an extra layer of depth to the show, offering a contrast to Pryce’s jaded outlook on life. The mentor-mentee dynamic, while a familiar trope, is a powerful tool for creating emotionally charged moments. The show’s focus on a “found family” theme resonates particularly well in the current cultural climate, where stories of healing, connection, and personal growth have become increasingly relevant.

If Apple TV+ can maintain the same level of emotional engagement and sharp writing that made Ted Lasso so beloved, Stick has the potential to be another hit for the platform. The show’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments, alongside the strong performances of its cast, will be key to its success.

Fact Checker Results:

The release date of Stick is confirmed to be June 4, with the first three episodes available for viewing. Weekly releases will follow until July 23.
Owen Wilson stars as the lead character, Pryce Cahill, in a role that appears to blend comedy with emotional depth.
The series shares thematic similarities with Ted Lasso, including its focus on mentorship, personal redemption, and the concept of found family.

Prediction:

With Apple TV+ riding high on the success of shows like Ted Lasso and Shrinking, Stick seems poised to capitalize on the growing demand for heartwarming sports comedies. Given the current trends in TV, where audiences are gravitating toward emotionally engaging, character-driven narratives, Stick has a strong chance of striking a chord with viewers. If the series can tap into the same emotional resonance and sharp humor that made Ted Lasso so successful, it’s likely to become another flagship show for Apple TV+.