After nearly three decades, Adam Sandler’s iconic golf-comedy Happy Gilmore finally tees up its highly anticipated sequel. Happy Gilmore 2, now streaming on Netflix, brings back the wild-swinging, short-tempered golfer in an epic return years in the making. This deep dive reveals the surprising journey behind its creation, from long-held skepticism to a star-studded cinematic event. It seamlessly blends beloved characters with fresh, exciting new faces, captivating fans worldwide.
The original 1996 film, Happy Gilmore, solidified Adam Sandler’s unique comedic style. Its blend of slapstick, heart, and golf absurdity resonated with audiences, becoming a genuine cultural phenomenon. Yet, despite its enduring popularity, a sequel seemed buried in the rough for years.
The Relentless Campaign for a Return
One figure consistently championed the sequel: Christopher McDonald. Known for his unforgettable portrayal of Happy’s arch-nemesis, Shooter McGavin, McDonald campaigned tirelessly for nearly three decades. He actively kept his character’s persona alive on social media, using an X (formerly Twitter) bio that reads: “Former #1 golfer in the world and an all-around bad guy.”
McDonald’s persistence was legendary. “I’ve been campaigning for about 29 years to get this thing done,” he shared. His efforts were a direct response to fan demand, which never truly waned for this iconic film.
Adam Sandler, however, remained a tough sell. For 28 years, the comedy superstar resisted the idea of a follow-up. “I was like, ‘What are you talking about? No,'” Sandler recently admitted. His stance changed suddenly, leading to a surprising “Maybe.”
McDonald often pointed out Sandler’s sequel work on films like Grown Ups 2. This subtly hinted that the star was not entirely opposed to revisiting past successes. McDonald believed Happy Gilmore simply had “so much life left in it.” This unwavering conviction ultimately found its mark.
Julie Bowen, reprising her role as Virginia Venit, initially harbored doubts about returning. Given the 30-year gap, she wondered if her character, Happy’s love interest, might be recast with a younger actress. However, Sandler firmly reassured her. He emphasized that Virginia remains the “heart of the movie,” insisting she was indispensable. Her return was “just fantastic,” she shared, feeling like “going home” to the familiar world of the film.
From Whisper to Worldwide Phenomenon: The Sequel’s Path
The idea for Happy Gilmore 2 didn’t solidify until about two years ago. Rumors of a sequel began circulating widely in March 2024. These whispers became a roar when Christopher McDonald publicly shared a significant encounter with Adam Sandler.
McDonald recounted how Sandler invited him backstage after his “Adam Sandler: Love You” show. There, Sandler presented the first page of the new script. “Are you kidding me? Are you telling me we’re making this thing finally?” McDonald recalled. This moment marked a pivotal turning point, transforming long-held hopes into tangible reality.
Netflix officially confirmed Happy Gilmore 2 in May 2024. The announcement delighted fans, confirming the return of both Christopher McDonald and Julie Bowen. Adam Sandler co-wrote the script with Tim Herlihy, a longtime collaborator who also co-wrote the original film.
Taking the director’s chair was Kyle Newacheck. Newacheck, who was only 12 when the original premiered, admitted to being “very, very nervous” about revisiting such a beloved movie. Having watched the original “countless times,” he approached the project with immense respect and a keen eye for detail.
Ensuring the golf scenes felt authentic was a top priority for Newacheck. Though he knew golf “from an arm’s length,” he leaned heavily on his first assistant director, David Bernstein, and PGA of America member Dan Baker for guidance. PGA cameraman Will Baker, who tragically passed away, also played a crucial role in operating the thousand-millimeter zooms, replicating a true televised PGA event. Newacheck meticulously studied how golf was shot on television, mirroring broadcast techniques with cinema cameras to immerse viewers in the sport.
A Fairway of Familiar Faces and Unforgettable Cameos
The plot of Happy Gilmore 2 finds our hero as a broke alcoholic, struggling to support his five children and his wife Virginia. His primary motivation for returning to professional golf is to fund his youngest daughter Vienna’s (played by Sandler’s real-life daughter, Sunny Sandler) ballet school in Paris, a cost of $30,000. Happy re-enters the professional circuit, guided by real-life golf legend John Daly, who even lives in Happy’s basement in the film. The narrative takes a “bonkers” turn halfway through, with Happy joining a competing league run by the villainous Frank Manatee (Benny Safdie) and attending a support group led by Hal (Ben Stiller).
The film boasts an astonishing roster of celebrity cameos, creating a truly star-studded ensemble:
Golf Icons: Two-time Masters champion Scottie Scheffler, two-time PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, Lee Trevino, Fred Couples, Corey Pavin, Jack Nicklaus, Keegan Bradley, Xander Schauffele, Jordan Spieth, Tony Finau, Collin Morikawa, Rickie Fowler, Charley Hull, Brooks Koepka, Nelly Korda, Nancy Lopez, Paige Spiranac, and Will Zalatoris. McDonald marveled at their talent, saying, “To see the way they swing the clubs, oh my god, they can kill it.”
Sports & Entertainment Stars: Bad Bunny (as Happy’s new caddie, Oscar Mejias, also a waiter, noted for stealing scenes), Super Bowl winner Travis Kelce (a waiter serving Jack Nicklaus), Eminem (an unnamed golfer in a heated exchange, echoing the original’s “jackass” insult), Kid Cudi (FBI agent Scott Mescudi, apprehending Ben Stiller’s Hal), Post Malone (a sports commentator), Guy Fieri (Maxi Starter, a golfer), Alix Earle (playing herself), Sean Evans, WNBA star Kelsey Plum, former Heisman winner Reggie Bush, Ken Jennings, and Dan Patrick.
Adam Sandler’s Collaborators: Many actors from previous Happy Madison productions, including Steve Buscemi, Kevin Nealon, Rob Schneider, Jon Lovitz, Robert Smigel, Nick Swardson, and Tim Herlihy, make appearances.
Touching Tributes: The film thoughtfully remembers departed original cast members, including Carl Weathers, Bob Barker, Richard Kiel, Joe Flaherty, and Frances Bay, honoring their contributions.
Producer Jack Giarraputo revealed that attracting such famous personalities was surprisingly easy. Travis Kelce actively sought a role, while Adam Sandler personally suggested Bad Bunny after seeing him on SNL. Golf professionals eagerly joined due to their deep affection for the original film, which significantly influenced golf culture by introducing humor into the sport.
Honoring Legacy, Forging New Paths
Sandler himself shared that the sequel’s story centers on “a sports person who’s aged and undergone some heartache to try and get back to what he loves.” A trailer for the film highlights Happy’s comeback journey. As he watches golf’s elite, he candidly admits, “I’m a little intimidated. All these guys hit it big now.” This reflects the evolution of golf, with modern “big hitters” like Bryson DeChambeau now routinely achieving 400-yard drives, a distance considered extraordinary in 1996.
The sequel also cleverly revisits iconic moments, including Virginia Venit’s memorable lingerie scene. Julie Bowen admitted initial apprehension, but the scene is deftly handled, allowing current-day Bowen to share the screen with her younger self. This serves as a “love letter to the original,” packed with easter eggs and the same beloved soundtrack.
Happy Gilmore 2 doesn’t just rely on nostalgia. The film’s narrative incorporates the changing landscape of professional golf, including the emergence of rival leagues. Director Kyle Newacheck focused on making every golf scene feel authentic, emulating professional broadcasts to help Sandler perform as if truly competing in a PGA event. The substantial Netflix budget allowed for the extensive cameos, enriching the film significantly.
A Multigenerational Cultural Phenomenon
The original Happy Gilmore grossed over $38 million on a $12 million budget. However, its true value lies in its profound cultural resonance across generations. Julie Bowen describes the film as “dad proof, it is kids proof,” marveling at its unique ability to connect with diverse audiences. This multigenerational appeal is precisely what made a sequel feel like the right move nearly three decades later.
Professional golfers themselves acknowledge the film’s lasting impact. Scottie Scheffler affirms it’s “for sure” part of golf culture. Justin Thomas called his participation a “very cool experience,” and Tony Finau, another cast member, found it surreal. “I think ‘Happy Gilmore’ is one of the greatest comedies of all time,” Finau stated. “To be a part of the sequel, it’s not even a dream come true because I didn’t even dream that something like this could happen.”
Christopher McDonald’s unwavering campaign paid off, resulting in an “incredible” experience for the 70-year-old actor. He was “so glad to be a part of it,” hopeful that it signifies “a massive hit on our hands again.” Happy Gilmore 2 successfully balances fan service with a fresh narrative. It respects the original while forging a new path for its beloved characters. This film is poised to bridge generational gaps, drawing in both long-time fans and new audiences to the world of golf and comedy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Happy Gilmore 2 about, and which original cast members return?
Happy Gilmore 2 sees the titular character, now a broke alcoholic with five children, return to golf to earn $30,000 for his youngest daughter’s ballet school. He also joins a new rival golf league. Key original cast members reprising their roles include Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore, Christopher McDonald as the iconic villain Shooter McGavin, and Julie Bowen as Happy’s love interest, Virginia Venit. The film also features Ben Stiller returning as Hal.
Who are some of the notable celebrity and golf star cameos in Happy Gilmore 2?
The sequel boasts an impressive array of cameos from both sports and entertainment. Golf legends like John Daly, Jack Nicklaus, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, and Bryson DeChambeau appear. From the entertainment world, fans can spot musician Bad Bunny (as Happy’s new caddie), NFL star Travis Kelce (as a waiter), rappers Eminem and Post Malone, celebrity chef Guy Fieri, and content creator Alix Earle, among many others.
How did Happy Gilmore 2 overcome Adam Sandler’s initial reluctance to make sequels?
Adam Sandler was famously hesitant to make sequels for nearly three decades, frequently dismissing the idea. However, the relentless campaigning of co-star Christopher McDonald, coupled with persistent fan demand and Sandler’s own ventures into other sequels like Grown Ups 2, eventually shifted his perspective. The idea for Happy Gilmore 2 specifically surfaced about two years before its release, with Sandler sharing the script with McDonald, signaling his change of heart and commitment to revisit the beloved character.
