Happy Gilmore 2 is generating significant buzz as one of the year's most awaited films, featuring a blend of Hollywood stars and sports icons.
Adam Sandler and Julie Bowen are set to reprise their roles as Happy Gilmore and Virginia Venit, characters they first brought to life in the 1996 classic. The sequel unfolds three decades after Happy's triumph in his inaugural Tour Championship, marking his return from retirement.
Returning alongside them are Christopher McDonald and Ben Stiller, who will once again portray Shooter McGavin and Hal L., respectively. Anticipation is high among fans regarding the participation of professional golfers, particularly Rory McIlroy, whose involvement has been confirmed.
McIlroy expressed his excitement about the project, noting that the original film holds a special place in his heart. “Happy Gilmore was the golf movie for me growing up,” he shared during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in May 2025. “I can recite pretty much every line. So the fact that I got the opportunity to do that was awesome.”
Filming was a highlight for McIlroy, especially the chance to work alongside Sandler. “Sandler is, like, the best,” he remarked enthusiastically. “He’s the absolute best.”
He elaborated on Sandler's multifaceted role in the production: “I felt like Happy Gilmore 2 for him was like a pro-am. He was producing, he was directing, he was acting. He was trying to coach us through what to do. It was a full-time job for him, but he’s a true pro.”
Joining McIlroy in the cast is NFL star Travis Kelce, who also praised his experience on set. “That was a dream come true,” Kelce stated on The Pat McAfee Show in January. “I thought SNL was going to be the peak of my acting and showman or entertainment career… working with Happy Gilmore himself, the Sandman and Happy Productions, it was off the chain.”
Kelce further noted the professionalism and fun atmosphere on set, comparing Sandler to a legendary coach: “I felt like I was working with like the Andy Reid of the acting world. [Sandler] is every bit as cool off the screen as he is on the screen. That was a dream come true. That was awesome.”
The film will also feature a roster of renowned golfers including John Daly, Keegan Bradley, Bryson DeChambeau, Tony Finau, Rickie Fowler, Brooks Koepka, Nelly Korda, Nancy Lopez, Collin Morikawa, Jack Nicklaus, Corey Pavin, Xander Schauffele, Paige Spiranac, Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Lee Trevino, and Will Zalatoris.
Happy Gilmore 2 is set to premiere on Netflix on July 25, 2025. Fans eagerly await this blend of comedy and sports nostalgia.
