Bad Bunny joins Adam Sandler in a scene from Happy Gilmore 2, captured during filming for the Netflix sequel. AP
Adam Sandler first got the idea for Happy Gilmore as a kid. His father often took him to the driving range in New Hampshire, but Adam didn’t care much for golf. One day, he brought his friend Kyle McDonough along. Kyle, a hockey player, hit the ball really far, even without golf training. That moment stayed with Sandler. Years later, he turned that memory into a movie character — a hockey player who joins the world of golf.
From Stand-Up to a Sports Comedy
Sandler and his friend Tim Herlihy had just finished Billy Madison when they wrote Happy Gilmore. They didn’t expect to make another movie so soon and had to come up with a new idea quickly. Herlihy, a former lawyer and Sandler’s college roommate, helped shape the story of Happy — a loud, wild guy with a powerful golf swing.
The movie came out in 1996 and became a comedy favorite. At first, critics weren’t kind. One even called it “the latest in the dumber and dumbest sweepstakes.” Still, fans loved it. It made $39 million and became a classic for anyone who enjoys goofy humor and golf.
Why a Sequel Now?
After years of turning down ideas for a sequel, Sandler finally said yes. He teamed up with Herlihy again to write Happy Gilmore 2, which premieres this week on Netflix.
This time, Happy is older and retired from golf. He has five children. But after a personal loss, he returns to the game to protect the sport he once fought to join. Sandler’s real-life daughter plays his on-screen daughter. Benny Safdie, who worked with Sandler in Uncut Gems, also stars.
Avoiding Sequel Disasters
Sandler knows sequels don’t always go well. He worried about making something that felt forced or dull. But he and Herlihy stayed focused on writing something fun and honest. They wanted to bring back the laughs while also adding heart and nostalgia.
They rewatched the original to capture the tone. It reminded them of old times and helped shape the sequel’s energy.
A Tribute to the Original Cast
Some beloved cast members from the first film have passed away, like Bob Barker, Carl Weathers, and Joe Flaherty. Happy Gilmore 2 honors them. The movie includes many cameos from celebrities and golf legends. Even Travis Kelce and Bad Bunny show up, along with a mix of PGA stars.
Happy’s Legacy Lives On
Over the years, many fans — even pro golfers — have tried Happy’s wild swing. Sandler recently saw Bryson DeChambeau hit the ball “360 yards” using the Happy Gilmore technique. Sandler says golfers still hope the move will work for real.
Even if this is the last Happy Gilmore movie, the character's swing and spirit will live on. Somewhere, right now, a kid is probably trying it out at a driving range.
