Happy Gilmore 2: Everything You Need to Know About Adam Sandler’s Sequel to the 1996 Comedy
It’s been nearly 30 years since Happy Gilmore graced our screens, and fans have long awaited a follow-up to the iconic comedy. Netflix has finally confirmed that a sequel is in the works, bringing back beloved characters while introducing new faces to the mix. Here’s everything we know about Happy Gilmore 2, from cast details to filming locations.
The Return of a Classic Comedy
The original Happy Gilmore, released in 1996, has become a cult classic in the sports-comedy genre. Adam Sandler, who co-wrote and starred as the titular character, made us laugh with his unconventional take on golf and his chaotic, underdog story. Now, decades later, he’s returning to the world of Happy Gilmore for another round of laughs.
Who’s Back in the Cast?
The sequel is shaping up to be a reunion of old favorites. Adam Sandler will of course reprise his role as Happy Gilmore, the once-ice hockey player turned golf sensation. Joining him are Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit, the PGA Tour publicist who became Happy’s love interest, and Christopher McDonald, who will return as the arrogant golfer Shooter McGavin.
The chemistry between these three characters is set to reignite the comedic fire of the original.
In a playful post on X (formerly Twitter), Netflix confirmed the return of Bowen and McDonald, teasing, “Shooter McGavin and Virginia Venit, please report to the green.”
New Faces in Happy Gilmore 2
Along with the returning cast, some new, exciting faces will be joining the Happy Gilmore universe. Pop star Bad Bunny, who has been making waves in Hollywood with roles in films like Bullet Train (2022) and Cassandro (2023), has signed on for an unspecified role. “Benito Sandler,” Netflix teased in another post, confirming Bad Bunny’s involvement.
Sandler revealed on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon that Kelce has a “nice something” planned for his appearance. Benny Safdie, one of the Safdie brothers who directed Sandler in Uncut Gems, has been confirmed for a significant role as well.
What Happened in the Original Happy Gilmore?
For those who may need a refresher, the original Happy Gilmore follows Happy, a failed ice hockey player with a temper, who discovers his uncanny ability to drive a golf ball farther than anyone. To save his grandmother’s house from being repossessed, he enters a series of golf tournaments to win the prize money.
Despite his unorthodox style and lack of knowledge about the sport, Happy’s raw talent attracts attention and rivalry, particularly from Shooter McGavin, a seasoned golfer who feels threatened by Happy’s rise. The film ends with Happy’s victory at the Tour Championship and the retrieval of his grandmother’s home.
What Can We Expect From Happy Gilmore 2?
While Netflix has kept plot details under wraps, Adam Sandler has dropped a few hints about the sequel. In an August 2024 interview, Sandler mentioned that the story would focus on an “older guy who played golf a long time ago,” with some flashbacks to the 1950s.
This cryptic comment has fans wondering whether we’ll see an exploration of Happy Gilmore’s life beyond the golf course or possibly his past.
Julie Bowen has also confirmed that her character, Virginia, is still very much in Happy’s life, stating in an interview with Today with Hoda & Jenna that Happy and Virginia “are very much together.”
Sandler and Tim Herlihy, who co-wrote the original film, have been hard at work on the script since early 2024, ensuring that the sequel lives up to the expectations of longtime fans.
Where is Happy Gilmore 2 Being Filmed?
Production for Happy Gilmore 2 is taking place in several locations across New Jersey, including Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Morris, and Somerset counties.
Filming is set to run from September through November 2024, giving the production team plenty of time to capture the iconic golf scenes and comedic moments we’ve come to love.
When Will Happy Gilmore 2 Be Released?
While a release date for Happy Gilmore 2 has not yet been announced, the film is currently in the early stages of production. However, with filming already underway, it’s likely that fans can expect the sequel to hit Netflix sometime in late 2025 or early 2026.
Adam Sandler added to the excitement with a nostalgic Instagram post on September 9, 2024, showing off Happy Gilmore’s iconic hockey jersey, captioning it with, “It ain’t over.
With its stellar cast, exciting new additions, and Sandler’s comedic genius at the helm, Happy Gilmore 2 is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the original and newcomers alike. Get ready to hit the greens with Happy and Shooter once again!
