At the Academy Awards on Monday, March 3, 2025, Conan O’Brien delivered one of the show’s more memorable moments with a quip aimed at comedian Adam Sandler. “You’re dressed like a guy playing video poker at 2am, Adam,” joked O’Brien, pointing out Sandler's casual attire of a baggy blue hoodie and basketball shorts. The humorous jab led to Sandler humorously feigning offense and leaving the ceremony abruptly, but for millennials tuning in, it ignited nostalgia for one of Sandler’s most beloved roles from the 1996 comedy classic, Happy Gilmore.
Originally, Happy Gilmore followed the story of Sandler's character, a failed ice hockey player who discovers his talent for golf. The film recounts his chaotic pursuit to save his grandmother’s house from tax foreclosure, all the whilst battling against the arrogant rival Shooter McGavin, portrayed by Christopher McDonald. While the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it grossed $41 million against its modest $12 million budget and has cultivated a passionate fanbase over nearly three decades.
The long-awaited sequel, Happy Gilmore 2, aims to revive the magic of the original, with many original cast members returning. McDonald will reprise his role as McGavin, whose charmingly smug persona appears to be at the center of the sequel’s plot according to teaser material released by Netflix. The duo's rivalry, which was such a draw for audiences initially, promises confrontations anew, particularly around the grave of Derick “Chubbs” Peterson, Gilmore’s mentor who met his end dramatically in the first film.
Julie Bowen will return as Virginia Venit, the love interest, and Ben Stiller is back as Hal, the sadistic retirement home manager, adding layers of familiarity for longtime fans of the franchise. Enthusiastic anticipation also surrounds the addition of notable figures such as NFL player Travis Kelce, rapper Bad Bunny, and others like Eminem and Kid Cudi. This diverse cast is reminiscent of the original film's delightful ensemble of cameos and unique characters.
Tragically, the sequel will not feature Carl Weathers, who played the beloved character Chubbs, after his passing in 2024. This loss casts a fitting shadow on the continuation of the story, but as many fans know, beloved characters often find ways to remain present through clever storytelling.
Filmed primarily under the watchful eye of director Kyle Newacheck, known for his collaboration with Sandler on Murder Mystery, the production concluded filming in December 2024 after Sandler announced the project on his social media during his 58th birthday. The engaging spirit of the original duo, Sandler and Tim Herlihy, returns as they penned the sequel's script, ensuring continuity and the same comedic tone fans loved.
Recent reports suggest the sequel may debut on Netflix on July 25, 2025, though this information has not been widely confirmed across major outlets. Happy Gilmore 2 has stirred excitement not only because of its nostalgic roots but also due to its strategic marketing efforts, including connections with Netflix's golf documentary Full Swing.
Filming included various real-life professional golfers from tours such as the PGA and LIV, emphasizing the film’s blend of parody with authentic sports elements. An impressive total of 27 different golfers were confirmed to have roles, weaving the world of professional golf seamlessly within the comedic narrative.
While precise plot details remain closely guarded, trailer glimpses offer hints of romance rekindled between Gilmore and Venit, along with the burgeoning rivalry with McGavin. These storylines, enriched by the return of familiar faces and the introduction of star-power cameos, are bound to propel Happy Gilmore 2 to new comedic heights.
Fans of Sandler and the original film eagerly await the chance to relive the laughter, hoping the sequel can maintain the charm of its predecessor. Given the franchise’s history and this continued investment by Sandler—the comedian having signed multiple film deals with Netflix worth over $402 million—the stakes are high.
With all the pieces falling smoothly together, the question remains: Can Happy Gilmore 2 capture the essence of what made the original not just popular, but iconic? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure; there is ample reason to celebrate the return of Adam Sandler to the henhouse of comedy.