Will Ferrell Netflix Golf Comedy The Hawk Receives Mixed Reviews After Release
Will Ferrell’s new golf comedy series on Netflix has landed and critics are split on The Hawk, some lauding the humour, characters and overall execution, while others are not so keen. Some reviewers applauded Ferrell’s return to sports comedy and the show’s lively cast, while others thought the series leans too much on familiar gags.
Will Ferrell Back In Sports Comedy With The Hawk
Out on Netflix in July 2026, The Hawk stars Will Ferrell as former golf champion, Lonnie “The Hawk” Hawkins, trying to put his career back on track. It follows Hawkins’ personal struggles, the doubts of everyone around him, his attempt at one last comeback and his quest to complete the Grand Slam of golf.
The series marks Ferrell’s first scripted television series regular role and reunites him with longtime creative partners including Harper Steele and Chris Henchy. Molly Shannon, Jimmy Tatro, Fortune Feimster and Luke Wilson also star.
Comedy Is Divisive For Critics
Netflix’s The Hawk review is getting a mixed first reaction. Some critics say the series captures the over-the-top style that made Ferrell a star in sports comedies, others say the jokes feel dated for today’s audiences.
It’s very much in Ferrell’s wheelhouse, a comedy built on the actor’s well-established brand of silly, over-the-top humour, said the Los Angeles Times.
The Guardian, however, was less impressed, saying that the series relied on tired formulas and that some of the jokes didn’t land quite as well with a modern audience.
Supporting Cast Gets Good Buzz
Reviews are mixed of the writing and tone but multiple reviews have pointed to the supporting performances. Molly Shannon plays Stacy, Lonnie’s ex-wife, and Jimmy Tatro plays his son Lance, a young golfer who is the new generation of the sport.
Fortune Feimster’s work as Lonnie’s caddie, Sam, is also being cited as one of the stronger parts of the show. Many viewers have said the supporting cast members are an important counterbalance to Ferrell’s larger-than-life performance.
Audience Response Remains Divided
Viewer responses have been in line with critic reviews. To some audiences, the series has been a light-hearted sports comedy, especially fans who enjoy Ferrell’s quirky and over-the-top style. Others have wondered if the idea translates well to a longer television format.
The mixed response indicates that The Hawk may appeal more to the loyal fanbase of Will Ferrell, who appreciate his trademark style of comedy, while those who seek a more authentic sports drama may have a different opinion.
Reference
Netflix Official Site – Used for release info, genre, cast members and creators of the show.
Netflix Tudum — Used for series premise, character background and plot.
Reuters – Context for Will Ferrell’s involvement and creative collaborations
Los Angeles Times — Critic analysis of the show’s style of comedy and Ferrell’s performance.
The Guardian – Used to criticise the style of humour and the perspective of the review overall.
People – Molly Shannon talks about joining the cast and working with Ferrell.
