Nearly 30 years after the original, “Happy Gilmore 2” brings Adam Sandler back to the golf course in a sequel that surprised fans with its emotional depth, outrageous comedy, and all-star cast. Released on Netflix in the last days of July, the film follows a darker chapter in Happy’s life as he battles alcoholism and grief while trying to support his daughter’s ballet dreams.
But beyond the plot, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes—from unexpected casting choices and returning fan favorites to filming locations and hidden callbacks to the 1996 classic. Here are 10 quick facts about the continuation.
A Tribute to Chubbs
Carl Weathers was originally set to reprise his role as Chubbs Peterson in “Happy Gilmore 2,” but his unexpected passing in 2024 led to major rewrites. Adam Sandler revealed that Chubbs had a central role in the early script and that losing Weathers deeply impacted the story’s direction.
A Nod to Hockey Legends
In true “Happy Gilmore” fashion, the sequel doesn’t forget his love for hockey. All four of Happy’s sons are named after real-life hockey greats—Gordie, Wayne, Bobby, and Terry—paying tribute to Howe, Gretzky, Orr, and O’Reilly.
A Quiet Tribute to Cameron Boyce
Early in the picture, a television plays in the background as Happy returns to the golf course, quietly showing a program featuring the late Cameron Boyce. The moment serves as a touching tribute to the young actor, who previously played one of Sandler’s sons in “Grown Ups” and its sequel.
A Family Affair
“Happy Gilmore 2” features multiple members of the Sandler family in key roles. Adam’s real-life daughter Sunny plays Vienna, Happy’s youngest child and emotional anchor in the story. Her sister Sadie appears as a support group member, while their mother Jackie takes on the role of Vienna’s ballet teacher.
Tiger Woods Joins the Timeline
At one point in the film, Happy pauses to admire statues of golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods—and himself. This playful moment implies that Tiger, who turned pro in 1996, was among those competing in the same fictional tournament where Happy famously beat Shooter McGavin.
From Director to Villain
Benny Safdie, who plays shady energy drink mogul Frank Manatee, has a history with Adam Sandler that goes beyond acting. He previously co-directed “Uncut Gems,” the intense thriller that earned Sandler some of the highest praise of his career. In “Happy Gilmore 2,” the roles reverse as Safdie steps in front of the camera to play the film’s main antagonist.
A Record-Breaking Debut
“Happy Gilmore 2” smashed Netflix records with an incredible 47 million views in its opening weekend. That number pushed it past the previous record-holder, “Carry-On,” which had drawn 42 million. The massive turnout proves that even decades later, audiences still have a soft spot for Happy’s wild swings and underdog charm.
From Director to Return Player
Dennis Dugan returns as Tour president Doug Thompson, stepping back into the role he played nearly 30 years ago. But beyond acting, Dugan was also the director of the original “Happy Gilmore” in 1996.
Sandler and Slim Shady, Round Two
“Happy Gilmore 2” marks the second time Adam Sandler has shared screen time with Eminem. Their first collaboration came in “Funny People,” where the rapper made a memorable cameo as himself. While his role in the sequel is brief, it continues a low-key creative partnership between two unlikely icons.
Cameo Chaos on the Course
“Happy Gilmore 2” is packed with cameos from across the golf world, bringing together legends and current stars in one chaotic comedy. Among those featured are Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Nancy Lopez, Fred Couples, Nick Faldo, Corey Pavin, Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Jordan Spieth, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, Keegan Bradley, Bubba Watson, Will Zalatoris, John Daly, Hunter Mahan, Charley Hull, and Nelly Korda.