Apple TV’s The Dink Debuts This Week, Here’s What Critics Are Saying

Apple TV’s new sports comedy from producer Ben Stiller is almost here, and the first reviews suggest that The Dink delivers a light, funny, and familiar underdog story.



When Does The Dink Premiere on Apple TV?



The Dink will premiere globally on Apple TV on Friday, July 24, 2026. The movie runs for 1 hour and 42 minutes and combines sports, comedy, family tension, and an unlikely journey into competitive pickleball.



Jake Johnson leads the cast as Dusty Boyd, a former tennis prodigy who now coaches children at a country club managed by his demanding father, Chuck, played by Ed Harris.



Dusty strongly dislikes pickleball and supports his father’s campaign against the increasingly popular sport. However, an old wrist injury forces him to stop playing tennis and use pickleball as part of his recovery. His decision soon places him in the middle of a battle that could decide the future of the struggling club.



Mary Steenburgen plays Candace, an experienced pickleball player who helps Dusty understand the sport. The supporting cast includes Aaron Chen, Patton Oswalt, Chloe Fineman, Chris Parnell, Christine Taylor and Martin Kove. Tennis stars Andy Roddick and John McEnroe also appear in supporting roles.



What Are Critics Saying About The Dink?



Early reviews describe The Dink as a playful return to the exaggerated sports comedies that became popular during the 2000s. Several critics have compared its tone and underdog structure to movies such as Dodgeball and Talladega Nights.



Jake Johnson’s performance has received particular praise. Reviewers say his dry delivery works well for Dusty, a bitter former athlete who slowly begins to reconsider his opinions about pickleball and his relationship with his father.



Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris also bring warmth to the story, while the appearances from Ben Stiller, John McEnroe and Andy Roddick add more humor to the tournament scenes.



Some reviews note that the plot follows a predictable sports-movie structure and leaves a few supporting storylines underdeveloped. Still, the overall response points to an entertaining comedy with silly jokes, likable performances and enough heart to support its familiar storyline.



The Dink arrives on Apple TV on July 24 and looks suited to viewers searching for a relaxed summer comedy with an unusual sporting twist.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyVNFzx5Pl8