Stick returns for its second season with a clearer understanding that its biggest appeal was never really golf, but the relationships people build through the sport. What started as a story about a former golfer attempting to turn a young talent into a champion now develops into a more intimate exploration of ageing, regret and the uncomfortable truth that life seldom goes according to the comeback plans we make.
Owen Wilson reprises his role as Pryce Cahill, a former golfing star whose career fell apart well before his abilities faded. After finding renewed purpose by mentoring Santi Wheeler (Peter Dager) in the first season, Pryce faces another important turning point. At 18, Santi must choose between turning professional and following the more traditional college route. Meanwhile, 55-year-old Pryce is considering a return to competitive golf himself. The situation creates an interesting reversal, as the man who once encouraged someone else to pursue greatness must now find the courage to chase it again.
The season works best when it follows these two journeys simultaneously. Santi is beginning to realise that having talent and opportunities does not automatically mean knowing how to make the right decisions. The involvement of agents, endorsement deals and the professional circuit introduces an entirely different set of pressures, which Pryce cannot always protect him from. Pryce must also understand that being someone's mentor does not give him control over their choices. The series effectively explores how guidance can cross the line into interference, particularly when someone has built a renewed sense of purpose around another person's potential.
For Pryce, attempting a comeback involves much more than improving his golf swing. The season explores the experiences that have shaped him, especially his difficult relationship with his father and the grief he still struggles to overcome. Flashbacks provide insight into his tendency to sabotage himself without offering convenient explanations for every problem he encounters in the present. His interactions with a sports mindset specialist also allow the show to examine the psychological demands of competitive sport, although some of the revelations feel a little too conveniently timed.
Wilson proves to be an excellent fit for the role. His familiar, laid-back style of delivery can occasionally make Pryce appear disconnected from the world around him, but it also makes his vulnerable moments particularly convincing. Even as the emotional stakes rise, Wilson does not dramatically alter his portrayal. Instead, the audience gets a better understanding of the emotions hidden beneath Pryce's relaxed exterior. It stands among his more satisfying performances on television.
The supporting cast adds considerable character to the season. Marc Maron continues to impress as Mitts, whose cynical attitude often conceals how much he cares about those around him. Timothy Olyphant brings an enjoyable combination of charm and mischief to the role of Clark Ross, Pryce's former rival. Rhea Seehorn joins the cast as Amanda, someone from Pryce's past who challenges him both personally and professionally. Her interactions with Wilson feel natural, making their shared history convincing without the need for excessive explanations. Peter Dager, meanwhile, gives Santi enough impatience and uncertainty to ensure that he does not become another talented youngster simply waiting for an older mentor to guide him.
However, Stick occasionally struggles to manage the number of storylines it introduces. Santi's romantic relationships, the changing equation between Elena and Mitts, Pryce's renewed sporting ambitions and his connections from the past all demand attention. Some of these narratives remain insufficiently developed, while others would have benefited from being handled more carefully. Judy Greer's Amber-Linn, in particular, gets disappointingly little screen time this season.
There is also a sense of familiarity in the way the series handles its emotional moments. Much like several of Apple's uplifting dramas, Stick places considerable faith in personal transformation, chosen families and the ability of human relationships to heal emotional wounds. At times, it is too eager to communicate its messages, making some inspirational moments predictable. Golf itself often serves more as a backdrop than the central subject. Yet, when the series allows the story to unfold naturally, the sport becomes an effective reflection of life's uncertainties. One can prepare, practise and study the course, but controlling every shot is never possible.
The second season is less concerned with whether Pryce can recover his old reputation and more interested in understanding what he expects to gain from trying. It acknowledges that another opportunity cannot undo the mistakes of the past, while growing older does not necessarily mean abandoning the possibility of changing oneself. Sometimes, it is about knowing when to attempt another shot and when to allow someone else to take theirs.
Stick appears to have discovered a more assured storytelling rhythm this season. Its warmth remains intact, even if the sentiment occasionally feels excessive, and its characters continue to be engaging company. Wilson's effortlessly relaxed screen presence makes this return particularly enjoyable.
The first two episodes are now available, with fresh episodes releasing every Wednesday on Apple TV.
