Entertainment
Happy Gilmore 2 Cast, Plot & Release Breakdown 2025-2026.
Nearly 30 years after Adam Sandler first teed off in Happy Gilmore (1996), Netflix has finally released the long-awaited sequel: Happy Gilmore 2. This time, the beloved hockey-stick-swinging underdog returns to the green not for glory—but for family. The film blends nostalgia, modern celebrity cameos, and heartfelt storytelling while reviving a cult classic for a new generation.
Whether you loved the original or are just curious why it’s breaking Netflix records, here’s everything you need to know about Happy Gilmore 2.
Key Details About Happy Gilmore 2
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Happy Gilmore 2 |
| Release Date | July 25, 2025 (Netflix) |
| Genre | Sports Comedy / Underdog Drama |
| Runtime | Approx. 1h 53min |
| Platform | Netflix (exclusive) |
| Director | Kyle Newacheck |
| Written by | Adam Sandler & Tim Herlihy |
| Production Company | Happy Madison Productions |
Plot Summary
In Happy Gilmore 2, Happy (Adam Sandler) has left the competitive golf world behind. But after the death of his beloved mentor Chubbs and facing financial strain, Happy returns to the course—not for himself, but to fund his daughter Vienna’s dream of studying ballet in Paris.
As Happy battles new-age golfers, aging joints, and unresolved rivalries, the film blends emotional beats with slapstick humor. The story is about more than golf—it’s about legacy, parenthood, and second chances.
Main Cast and Characters
| Actor/Actress | Role |
|---|---|
| Adam Sandler | Happy Gilmore (lead) |
| Christopher McDonald | Shooter McGavin (rival returns) |
| Julie Bowen | Virginia Venit (wife) |
| Bad Bunny | Oscar (Happy’s new caddy) |
| Ben Stiller | Hal L. (reprising retirement home orderly) |
| Haley Joel Osment | Rival golfer |
| Margaret Qualley | Golf academy prodigy |
| Benny Safdie | Eccentric coach |
| MJF (Maxwell Jacob Friedman) | Trash-talking competitor |
Celebrity & Athlete Cameos
The film is packed with cameos, including:
- Professional Golfers: Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, Justin Thomas, John Daly, and Jack Nicklaus.
- Athletes: Travis Kelce, Reggie Bush, Becky Lynch.
- Musicians & Celebs: Post Malone, Eminem, Cam’ron, Bad Bunny (major supporting role).
- Jeopardy Champ: Ken Jennings.
These cameos bring a modern flavor to the classic comedy while doubling down on fan service.
Filming & Production
- Filming Period: Sept–Dec 2024
- Location: Shot primarily across New Jersey: Bedminster, Montclair, Newark, and various golf clubs.
- Tone: While still comedic, the sequel adds layers of emotional depth—dealing with grief, aging, and family responsibility.
- Behind the Scenes: Adam Sandler and Bad Bunny’s chemistry became a talking point during filming, with viral clips and sweet behind-the-scenes moments circulating online.
Comparison: Happy Gilmore (1996) vs. Happy Gilmore 2 (2025)
| Aspect | Happy Gilmore (1996) | Happy Gilmore 2 (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Slapstick Sports Comedy | Comedy with Emotional Drama |
| Main Goal | Win PGA tournament | Pay for daughter’s dream |
| Rival | Shooter McGavin | Shooter McGavin returns + others |
| Prize | $275,000 | Personal redemption/family goals |
| Chubbs | Present (mentor) | Tribute (deceased) |
| Setting | PGA Tour courses | PGA + Golf Academy + Home Courses |
| Tone | Wild & goofy | Mix of humor and legacy themes |
Public Reception & Viewership
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Opening Weekend Views | 46.7 million (Netflix U.S. record) |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 61% (Audience: 78%) |
| IMDb Rating | 6.3/10 |
| Social Buzz | Trending globally post-release |
| Renewal Status | Not confirmed, but highly anticipated |
What Makes Happy Gilmore 2 Stand Out?
- Nostalgia Done Right: Brings back beloved characters and classic jokes while evolving the story.
- Real Sports Vibe: The inclusion of real golfers grounds the comedy in authenticity.
- Family Focus: The new emotional arc adds depth to Happy’s journey.
- Star Power: Bad Bunny’s breakout role as Happy’s caddy has been widely praised.
- Modern Production: Sleek cinematography, better pacing, and strong direction by Kyle Newacheck (Murder Mystery, Workaholics).
Conclusion
Happy Gilmore 2 is more than a sequel—it’s a legacy continuation that balances its goofy roots with emotional payoff. For longtime fans, it’s a satisfying revisit. For new viewers, it stands strong as a Netflix sports comedy with surprising heart and high production value.
If you’re looking for laughs, cameos, and a genuinely fun 2-hour ride, this is a Netflix must-watch for summer 2025.