Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore, released in 1996, is a quintessential comedy film that played a significant role in establishing Sandler as a leading man in Hollywood. The film follows the misadventures of Happy Gilmore, a disgraced ice hockey player who finds an unexpected talent for golf, all while competing for prize money to save his grandmother’s house. Along the way, he faces his arch-nemesis and learns to rein in his temper, providing audiences with a humorous and heartwarming journey.
Blessed with Sandler’s unique comedic style and a memorable supporting cast—including Christopher McDonald as the scheming Shooter McGavin, Carl Weathers, and even a cameo from Ben Stiller as the malevolent orderly Hal—Happy Gilmore became a cultural touchstone. Its success paved the way for Sandler’s future hits, including The Wedding Singer and The Waterboy. Despite Sandler’s typical reluctance to create sequels, the hype surrounding a follow-up film, Happy Gilmore 2, has gained momentum, much to the delight of fans.
Latest Developments on Happy Gilmore 2
Adam Sandler Hints at Release Window
As excitement builds for the sequel, Adam Sandler provided a glimpse into the timeline for Happy Gilmore 2 during an interview on the Dan Patrick Show in December 2024. He shared, “I think around July,” suggesting that filming was close to wrapping up and that a summer 2025 release seems likely.
I don’t know 100%, but I think around July, not July 4th, but we’re trying to get it done in time for July. You never know what’s going to happen. We’re just finishing today, it’s the last day.
Catch the full interview here:
Confirmation of Happy Gilmore 2
Netflix Greens Lights the Sequel
| Adam Sandler Sequels | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|
| Grown Ups 2 (2013) | 8% |
| Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015) | 57% |
| Murder Mystery 2 (2023) | 45% |
While updates on the script had generated buzz, it wasn’t until May 2024 that Happy Gilmore 2 was officially announced following Netflix’s involvement. This collaboration is not unexpected, given Sandler’s success with the platform. Filming commenced in September 2024, and Sandler announced in December 2024 that production had concluded.
Diving into the box office success, the original Happy Gilmore grossed over $40 million, solidifying its status as a cult favorite, according to Box Office Mojo.
Casting Details for Happy Gilmore 2
Returning and New Faces
Adam Sandler confirmed that he would reprise his role as the iconic Happy Gilmore. Not only is Christopher McDonald returning as the villainous Shooter McGavin, but Julie Bowen will also return as Virginia Venit, Happy’s love interest. Additionally, new talent is joining the lineup, with Margaret Qualley slated for an undisclosed role.
Excitingly, NFL star Travis Kelce and Uncut Gems co-director Benny Safdie will have cameo appearances, along with professional wrestling star Maxwell Jacob Friedman and golfer John Daly. Moreover, music icon Bad Bunny is expected to make an appearance, and fan-favorite Ben Stiller will reprise his role as Hal.
Confirmed cast members include:
| Actor | Role in Happy Gilmore 2 |
|---|---|
| Adam Sandler | Happy Gilmore |
| Julie Bowen | Virginia Income |
| Christopher McDonald | Shooter McGavin |
| Ben Stiller | Matter |
| Margaret Qualley | Unknown |
| Bad Bunny | Unknown |
| Benny Safdie | Unknown |
| Nick Swardson | Unknown |
| Maxwell Jacob Friedman | Unknown |
| Travis Kelce | Self |
| John Daly | Self |
| Scott Mescudi (aka Kid Cudi) | Unknown |
Story Insights for Happy Gilmore 2
Plot Possibilities for Happy’s Return
With the initial plot of Happy Gilmore neatly wrapped up, the sequel offers expansive opportunities for storytelling. In a previous discussion, Sandler hinted at a storyline that would explore Happy in his later years, still contending with his fiery temper.
The narrative could potentially see Happy participating in seniors’ golf tournaments, reigniting his rivalry with Shooter McGavin. This evolution of Happy presents a rich canvas for Sandler, who has showcased his diverse acting abilities in projects such as Uncut Gems. As of now, details remain scarce, leaving audiences in suspense for what Happy Gilmore 2 has in store.
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