Apple TV will launch a new original comedy in summer 2026. Apple Original Films is releasing "The Dink," a feature film that combines sports, family conflicts, and classic underdog humor. The worldwide release is scheduled for Friday, July 24, 2026. The film stars Jake Johnson, Mary Steenburgen, and Ed Harris.
The release date was officially announced at the Apple TV Press Day 2026. Jake Johnson and Mary Steenburgen personally presented the film there and confirmed that "The Dink" will be a worldwide exclusive on Apple TV. The production is part of Apple TV's ongoing strategy to focus exclusively on original content with well-known names both in front of and behind the camera.
Plot: From the tennis court to the pickleball field
The story centers on Dusty Boyd, played by Jake Johnson. Dusty was once a celebrated tennis prodigy, but his career has since fallen on hard times. Today, he coaches children at the country club owned by his father, Chuck Boyd, played by Ed Harris. The club is located in a suburb and is steeped in tradition.
Dusty longs for his father's approval and therefore, without much question, supports his father's personal vendetta against a new trend at the club: pickleball. Chuck sees the sport as a threat to traditional tennis and to his own vision of how the club should be run.
However, when Dusty suffers a recurrence of an old injury and can no longer play tennis, the situation changes. As part of his rehabilitation, he tries pickleball of all things. What begins as a temporary solution quickly develops into something more. Dusty discovers a love for the sport and finds not only a new playing partner in Candace, played by Mary Steenburgen, but also an emotional support system.
Torn between loyalty to his father and a new sporting and personal perspective, Dusty is forced to confront his past failures. This includes a confrontation with his childhood rival: tennis star Andy Roddick, playing himself. The story culminates in a battle for the future of the club, his relationship with his father, and Dusty's own identity.
Cast and Contributors
Besides Johnson, Steenburgen, Harris, and Roddick, the film boasts a prominent cast. Other actors include Patton Oswalt, Chloe Fineman, Chris Parnell, Aaron Chen, and Ben Stiller.
Josh Greenbaum, known for "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar," directs "The Dink." Ben Stiller and John Lesher produce for Red Hour Films, and Rob Paris and Mike Witherill produce for Rivulet Entertainment. Jake Johnson stars in the film and also serves as a producer.
The screenplay is by Sean Clements, known for his work on "Workaholics". Rick Steele, Sean Clements, Josh Greenbaum, Joe Hardesty, Jonathan McCoy, and Daniel Crosser are involved as executive producers.
Apple TV and the role of original content
Apple TV offers a wide range of drama and comedy series, feature films, documentaries, live sports, and content for children and families. The service is available on all common screen sizes.
Since its global launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV has been the first streaming service to launch exclusively with original content. During this time, the service has released more original hits and received more awards than any other streaming provider. In total, Apple Original films, series, and documentaries have won 691 awards and received 3,256 nominations.
Among the most famous productions are the multiple Emmy Award-winning comedies Ted Lasso and The Studio, as well as the historic Oscar winner CODA.
"The Dink" strengthens Apple TV's original film offerings
With "The Dink," Apple TV expands its film portfolio with a classic summer comedy featuring a sports theme and well-developed characters. The film combines familiar actors, an established creative team, and a theme that deliberately straddles tradition and change. Its worldwide release on July 24, 2026, makes "The Dink" a staple of Apple TV's summer lineup and underscores the streaming service's focus on exclusive original productions. (Image: Apple)
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