Happy Gilmore 2 Trailer Released, Nostalgia Hits New Heights
Nearly 30 years after the beloved character first hit theaters, Adam Sandler is back as Happy Gilmore, and fans couldn't be more thrilled. The trailer for Happy Gilmore 2 was released on December 25, 2023, by Netflix, giving audiences their first look at the much-anticipated sequel to the 1996 cult classic.
The original film followed the story of Happy Gilmore, played by Sandler, who struggled as a hockey player with anger management issues but later discovered his hidden talent for golf. Fast-forward almost three decades, and the sequel promises to deliver the same humor and charm.
Among the returning cast are Julie Bowen, who reprises her role as Happy's love interest, and Christopher McDonald, who returns as his rival golfer, Shooter McGavin. McDonald’s character is central to the tension showcased in the teaser, with glimpses of confrontation between him and Happy, including what appears to be set at the grave of Happy’s former mentor, Derek “Chubbs” Peterson, played by the late Carl Weathers.
Notably, the trailer opens with none other than Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who makes his film debut. The NFL star, who has gained fame outside football for his high-profile relationship with pop superstar Taylor Swift, delivers the trailer's opening lines as he greets Sandler's character: “It’s good to have you back, Mr. Gilmore.”
Adam Sandler expressed his excitement for the film during his appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, stating, “It’s good. We worked hard on the script, man! We didn’t want to let anybody down.” He elaborated on how the idea for the sequel came about, saying, “People have been asking me for a long time, ‘Do Happy Gilmore 2,’ and I was always like, ‘Nah, I’ll only let you down.’ But then me and my buddy, Tim Herlihy, we came up with this idea.” Sandler and Herlihy, who co-wrote the original, aimed to maintain the spirit of the first film.
The Happy Gilmore 2 trailer also teases appearances from several new stars, including Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny, actress Margaret Qualley, comedian Nick Swardson, rapper Kid Cudi (Scott Mescudi), and filmmaker Benny Safdie, who previously collaborated with Sandler on Uncut Gems.
While details about the plot remain scarce, fans are buzzing with speculation— particularly about the role Eminem will play, as Sandler cheekily hinted at the rapper's impressive work during just one day of filming. “He came by the set and was funny as hell ... said a million things we can use,” Sandler shared.
The nostalgic elements evident from the teaser trailer have already started to resonate deeply with long-time fans of the franchise, who fondly recall Happy’s distinctive hockey jersey and his endearing yet chaotic personality.
Director Kyle Newacheck, who has sports ties as a professional pickleball player, will helm the film, set to bring forth Sandler's unique comedic style and the films’ signature humor through this refreshing new installment.
Speaking about Kelce's involvement, Sandler previously mentioned, “We have a nice something for Travis. He’s going to come by. He’s a very nice guy…What a big, handsome guy. Funny and cool as hell.” This indication of camaraderie and excitement suggests the film will celebrate both the new and returning talent.
Mark your calendars—while Happy Gilmore 2 won’t premiere on Netflix until December 2025, the teaser serves as an early holiday present for fans, reigniting their affection for the beloved character and the humorous world he inhabits.
With its mixture of nostalgia, new faces, and familiar humor, Happy Gilmore 2 is set to make waves as it resurrects the golf comedy for both old fans and new audiences alike. Expectations are soaring as anticipation builds for this comedic spectacle.