**Stick: Apple TV+’s Latest Comedy Series Seeks to Recapture the Essence of Ted Lasso**
Recently, Ted Lasso held the title of Apple’s biggest success, but now that distinction goes to Severance. Nevertheless, a fresh comedy series named Stick is Apple TV+’s new endeavor to reclaim the magic of Ted Lasso. The show debuts tonight at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, with the initial three episodes made available, followed by weekly installments.
**Owen Wilson Takes the Lead**
Stick stars Owen Wilson in a position akin to that of Ted Lasso. Both series are heartwarming sports comedies that focus on middle-aged white males in coaching positions grappling with mental health issues while uplifting those around them. In Stick, Wilson plays Pryce Cahill, a former professional golfer whose career ended prematurely two decades prior. After enduring personal challenges, including a failed marriage and unemployment, Pryce places all his hopes on a troubled 17-year-old golf prodigy named Santi.
Apple’s overview of the series emphasizes its themes of family and connections within the distinctive realm of golf, offering a touching storyline that seeks to resonate with viewers.
**Critical Feedback**
Initial critiques for Stick have started to surface, indicating that while the series shares traits with Ted Lasso, it also has its unique appeal. Reviewers have mentioned the following:
– **Rolling Stone**: “If Stick seems derivative — not only of Ted Lasso, but of underdog sports films and shows broadly — it still holds its own appeal, beginning with its leading performer.”
– **TV Insider**: “Though many of the more obvious twists and predictable bumps invite a few eye rolls, you won’t be able to help but cheer for this makeshift family.”
– **Exclaim!**: “Fans of [Owen Wilson’s] rapid-fire delivery will find plenty of laughs, but it’s the character’s vulnerability that captivates us and keeps us engaged.”
**The Challenge of Living Up to Ted Lasso**
Regardless of the similarities between Stick and Ted Lasso, the latter set a high standard as a cultural sensation that struck a chord during its debut in 2020. While Stick may be tagged as the “new” Ted Lasso, it faces the hurdle of forging its own identity and charm to genuinely transform into the next major hit.
As viewers gear up to experience Stick, there is excitement regarding how successfully the series can mirror the winning formula of its predecessor while paving its own way in the comedy genre.
Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month and offers a range of popular shows and films, including Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, Silo, and Shrinking.
