Apple TV+’s Stick: A Hit or a Miss?
The Buzz Before the Release
Get ready to swing into action, folks! Apple TV+ is gearing up for the premiere of its latest sports-comedy hybrid series, Stick, hitting screens on June 4, 2025. Brought to life with the charm of Owen Wilson and a dash of golf nostalgia, this show aims to follow in the footsteps of Ted Lasso, the Emmy-winning sensation that has captured hearts and left viewers rolling with laughter. However, the critics are already raising a few eyebrows, and the early reviews have landed with a thud.
Critically Divided
As of now, Stick sports a rather unglamorous 50% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on just six reviews. If that score holds, it could take the dubious title of the lowest-rated Apple TV+ series for 2025. Critics are less than impressed, suggesting that the show is grappling with a lack of substance to fill out its 10-episode season. Common complaints point to a reliance on worn-out tropes and recycled clichés, which make its attempts to echo Ted Lasso feel not just obvious, but also disappointing.
Nick Shager from The Daily Beast quips that the show stretches its clichés so thin that it basically "neuters" the charismatic performances from Wilson and co-star Mark Maron. Meanwhile, Chase Hutchinson of TheWrap muses that a solid 90-minute comedy could have emerged from the concept, but instead, viewers might find themselves wishing the series would wrap up early.
Can It Find Its Groove?
So, what’s the future for Stick? Despite its inauspicious start, don’t count it out just yet! The ensemble cast, along with the golf-centric storyline, may just win over audiences. Golf is a beloved sport around the world, yet it’s often overlooked in film and TV—aside from classics like Caddyshack and Happy Gilmore (the latter of which is heading back to Netflix with a sequel this July, just as Stick wraps up its own season).
Much like its underdog narrative, Stick still has plenty of room to rebound. The charm of a golf comedy, especially when blended with heartfelt moments, could resonate with viewers looking for something lighthearted and fun.
Final Thoughts: A Show Worth Watching?
While the critical reception has gotten off on the wrong foot, perhaps there’s still hope that Stick can hit its stride post-premiere. Will it become a cult favorite or remain a missed opportunity? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: golf lovers and comedy aficionados alike will want to tune in and see if this series can turn the tide.
Mark your calendars and grab your popcorn! The game is far from over, and join us as we unpack whether Stick can rise from the fairway of low ratings to the green of fan adoration.
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