Will Ferrell and Molly Shannon are reuniting for the Netflix comedy series "The Hawk," which premieres July 16, 2026 [1].
The project marks a professional homecoming for the former Saturday Night Live cast members. Their partnership, which defined an era of sketch comedy, now shifts to a long-form narrative aimed at a global streaming audience.
In the 10-episode series [2], Ferrell portrays Lonnie "The Hawk" Hawkins, a fictional golf legend [1]. Shannon plays his foul-mouthed ex-wife [1]. During an interview with Entertainment Tonight in Los Angeles, Ferrell said Shannon was the perfect choice to play his foul-mouthed ex [3].
The collaboration follows a period of public celebration for Shannon. She recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, numbered 2,850 [4]. While reports differ on the exact date of the ceremony, with sources citing either June 22 [5] or June 23, 2026 [4], the event served as a prelude to the series promotion.
Ferrell, 58, and Shannon, 61, have a history of comedic synergy that dates back to their time at SNL [6]. Ferrell said Shannon saved SNL [7]. He said this new project brings their long-standing partnership full circle [1].
Despite the new series, Ferrell indicated a shift in his personal career goals. He said he is planning to quit performing and become a full-time roadie for his son, Magnus Ferrell, who is a musician [3]. This transition suggests a move away from the spotlight as he prioritizes his son's musical aspirations over his own acting career.
“"Molly Shannon saved SNL."”
The reunion of Ferrell and Shannon leverages a proven comedic chemistry to attract a legacy audience to Netflix. However, Ferrell's stated intent to retire from performing to support his son's career suggests that 'The Hawk' may represent one of the final major roles for the comedian, marking a transition from lead performer to supporting family figure.
