Happy’s back and the green just got a little louder.
Netflix has confirmed that Happy Gilmore 2, the long-rumored sequel to the cult-favorite 1996 golf comedy, will premiere globally on Friday, July 25, 2025. The announcement came alongside the release of the official trailer, giving fans a proper look at Adam Sandler’s return as the hot-tempered, hockey-loving golfer who first cracked jokes (and clubs) nearly three decades ago.
What’s New This Time Around?
While the full plot is still under wraps, the trailer offers some key hints: Happy’s still got his swing, still rocks the hockey jersey, and he’s once again facing down rivals on the course, both familiar and unexpected. The footage also pays tribute to the late Carl Weathers, who played “Chubbs” Peterson in the original film. Weathers passed away in 2024, and the sequel includes a heartfelt nod to his character.
We also see the return of Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), as smug as ever, and Virginia Venit (Julie Bowen), Happy’s original love interest. This time, the stakes seem higher, the competition fiercer, and the guest stars wilder.
Who’s in the Cast?
Aside from Sandler, Bowen, and McDonald, the film adds a long list of cameos, sports icons, and new faces, including:
- Ben Stiller (returning in a mystery role, reportedly reprising his cameo from Happy Gilmore)
- Bad Bunny
- Travis Kelce
- Conor Sherry
- Ethan Cutkosky
- Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF)
- Philip Fine Schneider
- Blake Clark
- Paige Spiranac
- Sunny & Sadie Sandler
- John Daly
And yes, professional golf royalty like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, Will Zalatoris, and Bryson DeChambeau will also make appearances as themselves, adding an extra swing of authenticity (and absurdity) to Happy’s latest round.
Even Margaret Qualley is set to appear in a small, undisclosed role, bringing a bit of indie cred to the mayhem.
Who’s Behind the Scenes?
Happy Gilmore 2 is directed by Kyle Newacheck (known for Workaholics and Murder Mystery), marking a shift from original director Dennis Dugan. The screenplay is written by Adam Sandler and Tim Herlihy, with Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions leading the project.
Filming took place in New Jersey from September to December 2024. While the story remains tightly under wraps, it’s clear from early previews that Happy’s still swinging hard and still holding grudges.
A Sequel Nearly 30 Years in the Making
Buzz around a Happy Gilmore sequel began years ago, thanks to comments from McDonald and an impromptu confirmation from Sandler via Drew Barrymore’s talk show. Since then, anticipation has only grown, fueled by nostalgia, viral fan edits, and Sandler’s continued Netflix streak.
Now, with the official trailer out and a release date locked in, fans of the original film finally have their follow-up, packed with punchlines, putters, and plenty of celebrity chaos.
