The wait is over for Will Ferrell fans, but unfortunately, the anticipation might have been better left unmet. 'The Hawk', a new Netflix original series, has landed on our screens with all the finesse of a golf ball into a sand trap – chaotic and slightly cringeworthy. Premiering today, 16 July 2026, this comedy sees Ferrell take on the role of Lonnie Hawkins, a former golfing great now wallowing in the minor leagues after a career-defining setback.
As one would expect from Ferrell's style, 'The Hawk' quickly establishes itself as an unapologetic riot, replete with raucous humour and crass antics. However, not everyone will be chuckling along – initial critical reception suggests that the series might leave some viewers feeling rather 'off-par'.
At its core, Lonnie's journey back to the top is a complex web of motivations, driven by both his rivalry with son Lance (Jimmy Tatro) and a desire to rekindle things with ex-wife Stacy (Molly Shannon). But, just as in golf, timing is everything – and here, it seems that Ferrell's more divisive comedic instincts have taken centre stage. The tone is set firmly on 'crass', with scenes showcasing Lonnie engaging in X-rated shenanigans on the golf course and making remarks that would make even the most seasoned heckler blush.
The character of Lonnie Hawkins, while undoubtedly a caricature of Ferrell's previous iconic roles (Ron Burgundy and Buddy the Elf spring to mind), is also being panned for its unlikeability factor. It seems that viewers are struggling to root for him – or, indeed, to see him as anything other than a thoroughly despicable chap. Take, for instance, his opportunistic behaviour following a friend's untimely demise or those awkward family gatherings he loves to crash with an 'aw, shucks' demeanour at odds with the utter despicability of his actions.
The supporting cast, including Fortune Feimster as Lonnie's new caddy Sam, is largely relegated to reinforcing Ferrell's unapologetic comedic style. Meanwhile, the narrative itself has been likened to a series of golf swings – each one attempting to build momentum but ultimately ending in an awkward stumble. Plot points are little more than segues between scenes showcasing Lonnie's increasingly bizarre antics, such as whispering sweet nothings to golf balls or simulating a rather...ahem...'romantic' encounter with the sand trap.
While 'The Hawk' is available to stream on Netflix from today, 16 July 2026, long-time fans of Ferrell might find a few gems amidst the rough – but it's clear that this series will be a love-it-or-hate-it affair. It remains to be seen how 'The Hawk' will fare in the UK market, where the streaming competition is as fierce as a Ryder Cup match.