Actor Jake Johnson, star and producer of the new Apple TV+ comedy "The Dink," shared insights into the film's production and its portrayal of the popular sport of pickleball. The movie, which began streaming today, features Johnson as Dusty, a former professional tennis player who initially disdains pickleball but comes to appreciate it.
Johnson reflected on his experience filming a key scene with tennis legend Andy Roddick, who plays himself in the film and is depicted as skeptical of pickleball. "Andy does not have a lot of respect for pickleball," Johnson told Decider. "I think Andy Roddick is similar to the character of Andy Roddick, and he thinks [pickleball] is just like tennis, but worse, and easier."
Filming the pickleball sequences presented unique challenges, particularly for Johnson, who admitted he lacked the natural ball-placement skills of Roddick. "Andy can place the ball exactly where he wants every time," Johnson said. "I think our director, Josh [Greenbaum], figured we both could. But that was not a natural skill I had! So that was a lot of anxiety."
The film also stars Mary Steenburgen, whom Johnson described as a "dream come true" to work with. He praised her comedic talent and kindness, noting that even being "slapped" by her in a scene was a positive experience.
Comedian Aaron Chen, who plays Dusty's loyal friend PJ, also discussed his role. Chen felt the character was a natural fit for his comedic style. Johnson, as a producer, sought out Chen for the part, believing he would bring a unique perspective. "I had personally been a fan of Aaron for about a decade. I really thought he would have a really unique spin on the character. And boy did he. I think it's the real secret sauce of the movie," Johnson stated.
Regarding the film's ending, Johnson revealed that alternative versions were considered, including one where his character and Steenburgen's developed a romance. However, the creative team ultimately decided against it, feeling it would alter the film's core tone. "My gut's telling me we don't go that route. It's a different movie and it is less fun," Johnson recalled the director saying, a sentiment Johnson eventually agreed with.