Netflix’s first year broadcasting the MLB Home Run Derby was supposed to bring a fresh feel to one of baseball’s biggest events. Instead, much of the conversation online centered on an unexpected guest. Actor Will Ferrell appeared during player introductions at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, but many viewers felt the segment took attention away from the derby itself. Ferrell showed up as Lonnie “The Hawk” Hawkins, a character from his upcoming Netflix comedy series The Hawk, alongside co-stars Luke Wilson and Jimmy Tatro. What was meant to be a fun promotional crossover quickly drew criticism from fans, many of whom described the segment as awkward, hard to follow, and simply unnecessary.
Will Ferrell, Luke Wilson and Jimmy Tatro’s Home Run Derby segment draws criticism
The opening ceremony had started on a strong note. Legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer introduced the eight Home Run Derby participants as they walked toward a boxing-ring-style stage set up near home plate in Philadelphia. The boxing-themed entrance was part of a tribute connected to the city and the 50th anniversary of Rocky. Soon after, Ferrell, Wilson and Tatro joined the broadcast to promote The Hawk, which premieres on Netflix this week. Ferrell stayed in character as Lonnie “The Hawk” Hawkins while the trio offered jokes and commentary during player introductions. The problem, according to many viewers, was that the segment never seemed to find its rhythm. Several moments overlapped with Buffer’s introductions, making it difficult to hear either side clearly. Fans also pointed to audio issues that left some of the jokes hard to understand.
MLB fans react as social media calls the Netflix crossover ‘cringe’
As the broadcast continued, criticism quickly spread across social media.One fan wrote, “Maybe I’m way off, but I don’t think the Will Ferrell-Luke Wilson thing is working at all. Honestly, I get the sense that they also know it isn’t working.”Another viewer said, “Love Will Ferrell, but we don’t need him here and can’t hear him on the broadcast. Cross promotion has its limits.”Sports media voices also weighed in. Andrew Marchand of The Athletic posted, “Will Ferrell and company may want to say something funny.”Other reactions were even harsher. One fan wrote, “I can’t believe Netflix ruined the Home Run Derby and Will Ferrell in the first 10 minutes.”Another post read, “This was a difficult watch. Just bad. I like these guys, but this was an awkward fit. I just don’t know if all this extra stuff is needed.” Not every viewer disliked the appearance, but the overall reaction leaned negative. Many fans felt the focus should have stayed on the hitters and the competition rather than a promotional segment for a new show. The criticism also added to broader complaints about Netflix’s first Home Run Derby broadcast, with some viewers questioning parts of the production and presentation.