Netflix confirmed in May 2024 that a sequel to the 1996 comedy film Happy Gilmore is in development [1]. Adam Sandler will reprise his role as the titular character, a hockey player turned professional golfer. The announcement followed years of speculation and requests from the public. Christopher McDonald, who plays antagonist Shooter McGavin, was an early proponent of a sequel, frequently mentioning the possibility in interviews and stoking fan interest. Sandler himself credited persistent fan enthusiasm as a primary reason for the project's development after nearly three decades [3].
Production and Development for Netflix
The sequel is slated for an exclusive release on the streaming platform Netflix, though a specific premiere date has not yet been announced [1] [5]. The project's confirmation came during a Netflix upfront presentation, officially ending long-standing rumors about the film's creation.
The script underwent significant changes during its development. A central challenge for the production team was rewriting the story following the death of actor Carl Weathers in February 2024 [4]. Weathers played Derick "Chubbs" Peterson, Happy's one-handed golf mentor, a pivotal character in the original film. Sandler stated that Weathers was intended to have a "massive part" in the sequel and described the necessary script alterations as a "painful change" for the creative team [4]. The production intends for the film to honor Weathers's legacy and his contribution to the original story.
New Plot Focuses on Family
The plot of Happy Gilmore 2 finds the main character in a different stage of life. Decades after his initial success, Happy Gilmore is now portrayed as an older family man [2]. His motivations have shifted from personal gain and saving his grandmother's house to supporting his own family.
According to early plot details, Happy's primary goal is to raise money for his daughter's ballet school tuition, which prompts his return to the world of professional golf [2]. Sandler described the character as being "a little thicker" and "rusty" at the sport, suggesting a narrative centered on his struggle to regain his former skills [1]. The story is expected to balance the comedic elements of the original with more heartfelt themes related to fatherhood and aging [3].
Cast Features Returning Actors and New Stars
The film will feature a combination of original cast members and prominent new additions. Several actors from the 1996 movie are confirmed to return, reprising their roles.
Returning Cast Members Include:
- Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, Happy's arrogant rival.
- Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit, Happy's public relations director and love interest.
- Kevin Nealon as Gary Potter, a professional golfer who plays with a therapeutic device.
- Lee Trevino, the professional golf legend, appearing as himself [2].
The sequel will also introduce a number of new faces from the worlds of sports, music, and entertainment. The confirmed new cast is expected to expand the film's appeal and introduce new character dynamics.
New Cast Members Include:
- Travis Kelce, the professional football player.
- Bad Bunny, the musician and actor.
- Ben Stiller, who appeared in the original film in an uncredited role as an orderly at a nursing home.
- Eminem, the musician.
- Rory McIlroy, the professional golfer [1] [5].
In addition to the professional cast, Adam Sandler's wife, Jackie Sandler, and their daughter are slated to have cameo appearances in the movie, a common feature in many of Sandler's productions [2]. The specific roles for the new cast members have not yet been disclosed. The inclusion of current athletes like Kelce and McIlroy continues the original film's tradition of blending sports and comedy.