Stick Review: Owen Wilson's Beautiful Golf Comedy You Need 2026

In the new golf comedy Stick, Owen Wilson delivers a performance that makes this show an absolute must-watch. The series, which streams on Apple TV+, follows Pryce Cahill, a former golf prodigy turned struggling salesman, as he navigates a midlife crisis with humor and heart.

Pryce isn't your typical washed-up athlete. He's self-aware, quoting historical figures like Moses and Churchill to justify his own crisis. But when he discovers a raw talent in 17-year-old Santiago Wheeler, his life takes an unexpected turn.

A Charming Underdog Story

Stick is built on the classic underdog narrative, but it's elevated by sharp writing and genuine emotional depth. Pryce, once a scintillating talent who threw it all away, now sells golf equipment and coaches no-hopers. His discovery of Santi at a crappy Indiana driving range reignites a passion he thought was long gone.

The show wisely avoids making Pryce a mere mentor figure. His own struggles with regret and redemption are front and center, making his journey as compelling as Santi's rise.

Meet the Cast of Characters

Around Pryce and Santi is a found family that grounds the series. Santi's mother, Elena, is smart and resourceful but unprepared for the hoopla of top-level sport. Her presence adds a layer of authenticity and warmth.

Other supporting characters, including fellow golfers and tour insiders, round out a world that feels lived-in and real. Each brings their own quirks and challenges, enriching the narrative.

• Owen Wilson shines as Pryce Cahill, balancing comedy and pathos.
• Peter Dager impresses as Santiago Wheeler, the young golf phenom.
• Mariana Treviño brings depth as Elena, Santi's mother.
• The show blends sports drama with family dynamics.
• Each episode is a half-hour delight, perfect for casual viewing.

Why Stick Stands Out

In a landscape dominated by dark, prestige dramas, Stick is a breath of fresh air. It's a chummy hangout show that feels like twisting open a cold one and sinking into the couch. Yet, beneath its easygoing surface, it sneaks up on you with deeply emotional moments.

The series doesn't shy away from the realities of professional golf—the pressure, the politics, and the personal sacrifices. But it handles these themes with a light touch, never becoming preachy.

A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama

Stick masterfully balances its comedic and dramatic elements. Wilson's natural charisma carries the humor, while the writing ensures that the emotional beats land. It's a show that makes you laugh one minute and reflect the next.

The pacing is spot-on, with each half-hour episode flying by. It's the kind of show you can binge or savor weekly, and it washes down all those heavy documentaries nicely.

What to Expect in Season Two

Season one ended with Santi as the hottest young amateur on the PGA tour. Season two picks up with the aftermath of that success. The obvious route would be to follow Santi's professional career, but Stick is smarter than that.

Instead, the show continues to explore Pryce's redemption arc. His relationship with Santi and Elena deepens, and new challenges arise. The dynamic between mentor and protégé evolves in surprising ways.

The Verdict

Stick is a show that sneaks up on you. It may seem superficially inessential, but it's sneakily deeply emotional. Owen Wilson's performance is a career highlight, and the supporting cast is uniformly excellent.

If you're looking for a feel-good series with substance, Stick is it. It's a beautiful golf comedy that you really need in your life.

For those who enjoy sports-themed entertainment, our Runner Review: Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson Deliver Action Camp offers another look at Wilson's versatile talents.

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