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1. Introduction: The Return of Happy Gilmore
Nearly 30 years after the cult classic Happy Gilmore debuted in 1996, Netflix brings back Adam Sandler’s outrageously talented hockey player-turned-golfer for Happy Gilmore 2. The sequel reunites fans with beloved characters while introducing fresh faces, celebrity cameos, and heartfelt storytelling. It premieres exclusively on Netflix on July 25, 2025.The Times of India+15Newsweek+15Indiatimes+15
2. Release Date & Platform
The film will debut at 12 a.m. PT / 3 a.m. ET on July 25, 2025, available only on Netflix with no theatrical release.Decider+1Newsweek+1 This release strategy aligns with Netflix’s digital-first model and Snow’s commitment to accessibility.
3. Plot Synopsis
Set almost three decades after his first victory, Happy Gilmore returns to competitive golf—this time to pay for his daughter Vienna’s ballet school in France.Buzztatler+1Newsweek+1The Times of India+3Wikipedia+3Decider+3 He moves from player to mentor, navigating family pressures, surprising rivalries, and nostalgia-fueled challenges.
4. Cast & Celebrity Cameos
🎥 Returning Favorites:
- Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore
- Christopher McDonald reprises Shooter McGavin
- Julie Bowen returns as Virginia Venit
- Ben Stiller as Hal L., and Dennis Dugan reprises as Doug ThompsonNews.com.au+2Newsweek+2Indiatimes+2The Times of India+15Wikipedia+15People.com+15
🚀 New Faces & Cameos:
- Bad Bunny as Happy’s caddy, Oscar
- Margaret Qualley, Benny Safdie, Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF), Ethan Cutkosky, and Conor Sherry as Happy’s sons
- Lavell Crawford plays Chubbs Peterson’s son, a character added after Weathers’ passingThe Hollywood News+13Wikipedia+13Cinemablend+13
🏌️♂️ Golf Legends & Celebrities:
- Appearances by Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Jordan Spieth, Jack Nicklaus, and many moreThe Economic Times+4Wikipedia+4Newsweek+4
- Celebrity cameos include Travis Kelce, Eminem, Post Malone, Ken Jennings, Reggie Bush, and Becky LynchNewsweek+8Wikipedia+8Wikipedia+8
5. Production & Behind-The-Scenes Changes
Principal photography started in New Jersey on September 9, 2024, wrapping in early December.Reddit+7What’s on Netflix+7Wikipedia+7
Rewriting for Carl Weathers
Carl Weathers, beloved for his role as Chubbs Peterson in the original, passed away in 2024. He was set to return in Happy Gilmore 2 in expanded role drafts. Following his passing, the script was rewritten to honor his legacy. The character now appears through tributes and backstory, including mention of Chubbs’ son starring alongside Happy.Decider+8The Economic Times+8Cinemablend+8
6. Trailer & Promotion
- A teaser trailer debuted in March 2025, building anticipation with glimpses of Adam Sandler, returning cast, and Bad Bunny cameo.Indiatimes+4India Today+4Buzztatler+4
- A full reveal trailer premiered via Netflix Tudum, loaded with Easter eggs referencing the original film.Newsweek+7Netflix+7Cinemablend+7
🎮 Spotify Mini-Golf Tie-In
To commemorate the release, Spotify released an in-app mini golf game where users can tap to swing, unlock movie-themed audio clips, and get exclusive playlists. On completion, players may watch the trailer directly and share their scores online.TechCrunch
7. Why This Sequel Matters
Nostalgia Meets Fresh Energy
The original Happy Gilmore stands among Adam Sandler’s most beloved films. With returning cast and updated humor, this sequel blends nostalgia with contemporary style.Decider+15EW.com+15Indiatimes+15
Representation, Legacy & Respect
The film navigates how to continue a story when beloved actors pass. By honoring Carl Weathers and Chubbs Peterson, it handles legacy with grace.Wikipedia+3News.com.au+3Cinemablend+3
Star-Studded Appeal
With cameo appearances from rappers, sports stars, comedians, and real golfers, Happy Gilmore 2 aims to transcend genres and reach varied audiences.Irish Golfer Magazine+9Wikipedia+9The Economic Times+9
8. Plot Highlights & What We Expect
- Happy returns from retirement for his daughter Vienna’s sake
- His sons get pulled into golf hijinks—likely rivalry or comedy
- References to older fans: callbacks, callbacks to Chubbs, original moments
- Over-the-top golf matches, public humiliation, redemption stories
- A possible tournament arc featuring real golf stars and comedic mayhem
9. Community Reaction
Fans on Reddit expressed excitement and nostalgia:
“This has everything I want from a follow-up: Christopher McDonald returning, Julie Bowen, even Ben Stiller cameo.”India Today+3Wikipedia+3Decider+3Wikipedia+10Reddit+10Newsweek+10
“MJF and Adam Sandler in a classic-screaming match? Pre‑bought my ticket already.”Reddit
Critics and trade analysts note Sandler’s willingness to honor the past while pushing the narrative forward.People.comReddit
10. FAQ
Q1: When is Happy Gilmore 2 premiering?
On Netflix July 25, 2025 at midnight PT / 3 a.m. ET. No theatrical release.Decider+1Reddit+1
Q2: Who’s returning from the original cast?
Adam Sandler (Happy), Christopher McDonald (Shooter McGavin), Julie Bowen (Virginia), Ben Stiller (Hal L.) and Dennis Dugan (Doug Thompson).What’s on Netflix+12Wikipedia+12Newsweek+12
Q3: Why was the script rewritten?
After the passing of Carl Weathers in 2024, the script was restructured to honor his legacy and adjust Chubbs’ storyline.News.com.au+2The Economic Times+2Cinemablend+2
Q4: Which sports and celebrities appear?
Cameos from Travis Kelce, Eminem, Post Malone, and numerous pro golfers like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Jordan Spieth.News.com.au+6Wikipedia+6The Economic Times+6
Q5: Is Chubbs in the movie?
Carl Weathers doesn’t return; instead, the sequel pays tribute through his son (played by Lavell Crawford) and flashbacks.Cinemablend+1Wikipedia+1
11. Final Thoughts
Happy Gilmore 2 promises to mix the charm of the original classic with contemporary flair and heartfelt storytelling. Sandler reunites with familiar faces, introduces new characters—many of them actual golf legends—and crafts a narrative steeped in humor, nostalgia, and familial love.
With its July 25, 2025 Netflix release, this sequel is poised to be a highlight of summer comedy streaming. Whether you’re a long-term fan or new to Happy’s world, expect laughs, surprises, and perhaps a few heartfelt moments on the green.
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