Dive into the world of Adam Sandler‘s latest golf comedy sensation, Happy Gilmore 2. This highly anticipated sequel to the 1996 classic brings back the hot-tempered golfer for more hilarious antics on the green. From star-studded cameos including Eminem and pro golfers like Kelsey Plum and Nelly Korda, to filming locations and reviews, this article explores everything fans need to know about Happy Gilmore 2, its cast, and where to watch it.
The Legacy of Happy Gilmore and Its Sequel
The original Happy Gilmore, released on February 16, 1996, starred Adam Sandler as Happy, a failed hockey player turned golfer with a powerful swing and short temper. Directed by Dennis Dugan, it featured memorable characters like Chubbs Peterson played by Carl Weathers, the villainous Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), and Happy’s love interest Virginia Venit (Julie Bowen). The film also had iconic cameos, such as Bob Barker in a famous fight scene with Happy. With a runtime of 92 minutes, it grossed over $41 million and became a cult classic for its blend of slapstick humor and golf satire.
Fast forward to Happy Gilmore 2, announced in 2024 and released on Netflix on July 25, 2025. Directed by Kyle Newacheck, this sequel picks up years later, with Happy dealing with personal tragedies, including accidentally killing his wife Virginia in a golf mishap. Now an alcoholic supermarket worker, Happy returns to golf to fund his daughter Vienna’s ballet dreams, facing new rivals in a high-stakes league. The film explores themes of redemption, family, and the evolution of golf, while paying homage to the original through returning elements like Happy’s signature putter and references to Chubbs. Filmed primarily in New Jersey from September to December 2024, the production embraced real golf courses to capture authentic swings and scenery, contrasting the original’s British Columbia locations.
Star-Studded Cast and Surprising Cameos
The cast of Happy Gilmore 2 blends familiar faces with fresh talent. Adam Sandler reprises his role as Happy, joined by Julie Bowen in flashbacks as Virginia, Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, and Ben Stiller as the abusive orderly Hal L. New additions include Benny Safdie as the scheming CEO Frank Manatee and Bad Bunny as Happy’s caddie Oscar Mejías. Adam Sandler’s kids, daughters Sadie and Sunny Sandler, appear in supporting roles, with Sunny playing one of Happy’s children, adding a personal touch since Adam Sandler’s daughter in Happy Gilmore 2 brings family dynamics to the screen. Jackie Sandler, Adam’s wife, also has a cameo.
What makes Happy Gilmore 2 cameos stand out are the celebrity appearances. Rapper Eminem pops up in a hilarious scene as himself, trash-talking on the course, while Post Malone is rumored but unconfirmed. Sports stars shine brightly: WNBA’s Kelsey Plum and LPGA’s Nelly Korda make appearances as golfers, alongside pros like Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, and John Daly. Other notable cameos include social media influencer Alix Earle, NFL’s Reggie Bush, and actor Billy Jenkins as the rival Billy. The full cast of Happy Gilmore 2 also features references to the late Carl Weathers through Chubbs’ son, and Ben Stiller’s return ties back to the original’s humor.
Production Insights, Reviews, and Viewing Guide
With a reported Happy Gilmore 2 budget around $80 million, the film invests in high-production values, including custom props like the Odyssey-inspired Happy Gilmore putter. The runtime is approximately 105 minutes, rated PG-13 for crude humor and language. Filming locations in New Jersey provided a fresh backdrop, differing from the original’s Vancouver settings, allowing for dynamic golf sequences.
Upon release, Happy Gilmore 2 reviews were mixed, earning a 58% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised Sandler’s energetic performance and the cameos but noted the plot’s darker tones clashed with the original’s lightheartedness. Fans, however, loved the nostalgia and golf action. To watch Happy Gilmore 2, stream it exclusively on Netflix, where the original Happy Gilmore 1 is also available for a perfect double feature.
In summary, Happy Gilmore 2 successfully revives Adam Sandler’s iconic character with a mix of heartfelt story, star power, and golf-themed hilarity, despite some critical divides. From its impressive cast featuring Eminem and pro athletes to its New Jersey filming and Netflix availability, it’s a must-watch for fans. Whether revisiting the original or diving into the sequel, it reminds us why Sandler’s comedies endure—pure, chaotic fun on and off the course.
About the Author
