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Adam Sandler is taking fans back to the golf course in Netflix's highly anticipated sequel, Happy Gilmore 2, nearly three decades after the original became a cult classic. The teaser, released on Christmas Day, captured the holiday spirit while reigniting enthusiasm for one of Sandler's most iconic characters.
In the first Happy Gilmore (1996), Sandler's titular character used unconventional means to master professional golf, all while dealing with anger issues and a quest to save his grandmother's home. The upcoming sequel promises to deliver similar comedic charm while exploring new dynamics. Sandler returns alongside original cast members Julie Bowen, reprising her role as Virginia Venit, and Christopher McDonald as the infamous Shooter McGavin. "It feels like coming home," McDonald stated in a March interview, hinting at his excitement for the sequel.
The addition of fresh faces has raised expectations. NFL superstar Travis Kelce makes his acting debut, with Grammy-winning artist Bad Bunny, Margaret Qualley, and comedian Nick Swardson joining the ensemble. Kelce's opening line in the teaser, "It's good to have you back, Mr. Gilmore," perfectly encapsulates fans' sentiments. According to Netflix, the cast ensures "a mix of nostalgia and contemporary flair," broadening the film's appeal.
Behind the scenes, Kyle Newacheck, who previously directed Sandler in Murder Mystery, takes the reins as director. The script reunites Sandler with Tim Herlihy, his co-writer on the 1996 original, while Dennis Dugan, who directed the first film, serves as an executive producer. Early reactions suggest the film balances familiar humor with fresh creative input, a combination that Netflix's Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria claims is key to its strategy.
Christopher McDonald had initially teased the sequel's development in March 2024, sparking speculation. By May, Netflix confirmed the project, following the original film's enduring popularity on the platform. An insider revealed that discussions about reviving Happy Gilmore had been ongoing for years, with Sandler playing a pivotal role in its fruition.
Fans are particularly intrigued by reports of Eminem's cameo. Described by Sandler as "insane," the rapper's single-day shoot reportedly features one of the sequel's standout comedic moments. Netflix has yet to release further details, but the announcement has added fuel to the hype.
Scheduled for a 2025 release, Happy Gilmore 2 aims to bridge generations of viewers with its timeless humor and star-studded lineup. As Shooter McGavin might say, "This one's a hole-in-one."
