Stick (2025–) is one of the most anticipated American sports comedy series of the year, blending heartfelt mentorship, underdog sports drama, and road-trip humor. Created by **Jason Keller**, and starring **Owen Wilson**, this English-language series premiered on **June 4, 2025** on Apple TV+ and has already been renewed for a second season.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Movie Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Stick |
| Genre | Sports Comedy |
| Language | English |
| Release Date | June 4, 2025 |
| Creator / Showrunner | Jason Keller |
| Directors & Writers | Directors: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris, Jaffar Mahmood, David Dobkin, M.J. Delaney, John Hamburg; Writers include Jason Keller, Christopher Moynihan, Bill Callahan, Kate Fodor, Esti Giordani, Ryan Hooper, Bryan Johnson, Jimy Shah |
Overview & Premise
**Stick** centers on **Pryce “Stick” Cahill** (Owen Wilson), a washed-up former professional golfer whose career derailed two decades ago. After a public meltdown and the collapse of his marriage, Pryce is now working at a sporting goods store. Life seems bleak until he meets **Santi Wheeler**, a troubled 17-year-old golf prodigy. Believing coaching Santi may be his last shot at redemption, Pryce stakes his future on helping the teen succeed—emotionally and on the green.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The series is a warm, feel-good dramedy that doubles as a road-trip tale, as Pryce, Santi, and their traveling team embark across America, facing tournament pressure, emotional wounds, and unexpected hope—set against the unique backdrop of the golf world. Cameos by real golf stars and sportscasters lend authenticity and charm.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Cast & Characters
- Owen Wilson as Pryce “Stick” Cahill – former golf pro haunted by past failures, now coaching Santi with equal parts hope and insecurity.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Peter Dager as Santi Wheeler – a teenage golf phenom whose prodigious talent becomes Pryce’s chance for redemption.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Mariana Treviño as Elena Wheeler – Santi’s protective mother.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Marc Maron as Mitts – Pryce’s ex-caddie and sidekick who lightens the load with dry wit.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Lilli Kay as Zero – a bartender turned caddy, providing cheeky friction.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Judy Greer as Amber‑Linn – Pryce’s ex-wife, whose dynamic with him remains emotionally rich.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Timothy Olyphant as Clark Ross – Pryce’s rival whose sudden return stirs old tensions.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Guest appearances by real-life golf figures including Collin Morikawa, Keegan Bradley, Max Homa, as well as sportscasters like Jim Nantz and Trevor Immelman.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Production & Release
Developed by **Jason Keller** (known for *Ford v Ferrari*), **Stick** is produced for Apple TV+ by Propagate, Entertainment 360, Kellerama, Apple Studios, and Piece Of Work Entertainment. Filming took place in Vancouver, British Columbia under the working title *Rambler & the Birdie Machine*.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
The show premiered on **June 4, 2025** with three episodes dropping simultaneously. The first season comprises 10 episodes, released weekly through **July 23, 2025**.:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
In July 2025, Apple TV+ officially renewed **Stick** for a second season. Creator Jason Keller teased that the new season will explore Pryce’s possible return to professional golf, deepen rivalries, and expand personal dynamics with characters like Amber‑Linn and Clark Ross.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Critical Reception & Reviews
**Stick** garnered generally positive reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a strong **82% Tomatometer**, while **Metacritic** rates it **62**—both reflecting favorable responses to its tone and performances.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Critics noted the series combines underdog sports drama and feel-good warmth effectively, likening it to *Ted Lasso* with a golf twist. However, some reviewers found its pacing sluggish and character arcs, particularly Santi’s, underdeveloped.:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Yet the authentic atmosphere of the golf world, Owen Wilson’s subdued charm, and standout performances from Mañana Treviño and Marc Maron earned praise for their emotional gravitas and natural chemistry.:contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
Why It Matters
**Stick** stands out because:
- Heartfelt sports storytelling: It blends coaching drama with emotional healing and redemption in a heartfelt, accessible way.:contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- Strong lead performance: Owen Wilson’s portrayal of a broken yet hopeful coach anchors the show with sincere warmth.:contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
- Authentic golf culture: Cameos from real golfers and sportscasters enrich the backdrop with believable context.:contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Character-driven ensemble: Supporting roles like Elena and Mitts provide emotional depth often missing in formulaic sports shows.:contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
- Renewed momentum: The early Season 2 confirmation signals confidence in the series’ longevity.:contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Summary
**Stick (2025–)** is a warm, character-driven sports comedy that finds redemption on the green. Created by Jason Keller and led by Owen Wilson’s nuanced performance, it follows a fallen golf pro betting on a teenage prodigy and maybe saving himself in the process. With its blend of heartfelt humor, lightly nostalgic sports drama, and genuine portrayals, the series makes for compelling, feel-good viewing.
Since launching on **June 4, 2025** with a 10-episode season on Apple TV+, Stick has earned a reputation as a cozy underdog tale—with the promise of a second season building on its emotional grounding and sporting heart.
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