Are sequels better or worse than the originals? That has been up for debate for decades. However, with the upcoming release of Happy Gilmore 2, fans wonder if the sequel will fill the shoes of the original classic American sports comedy. Happy Gilmore was released on February 16, 1996, and has remained a “cult classic” for almost 30 years. After the movie’s release, it made over $40 million at the box office and continues to be a fan favorite for all ages.
The original movie follows Happy Gilmore, played by Adam Sandler, as he discovers his unconventional knack for golf after he learns his grandmother’s (Frances Bay) house might be lost forever. He ultimately joins a golf tournament to try and win enough money to buy his grandmother’s house, and becomes an unlikely golf hero along the way.
Although it won’t be released in theaters, the Netflix Upfront 2024 presentation in May officially announced that Happy Gilmore 2 is coming to Netflix on July 25, 2025. The official teaser trailer that dropped on March 18th shows Happy, who has not golfed in years, coming back to the sport. He faces triumphs and tribulations in a new chapter of his life. He struggles to find his “happy place” among nostalgia and change from familiar faces and a new generation of competition.
The original cast of Happy Gilmore reprised their roles from the film for the sequel. Adam Sandler (Happy Gilmore), Julie Browen (Virginia Venit), Allen Covert (Otto), Dennis Dugan (Doug Thompson), Christopher McDonald (Shooter McGavin), and Ben Stiller (Hal L) make up the returning cast in Happy Gilmore 2. A few of the cast members will not be returning due to their unfortunate passing since the original was released. Frances Bay (Grandma Gilmore), Carl Weathers (Chubbs Peterson), Joe Flaherty (Donald), and Bob Barker will be deeply missed in the sequel.
However, the trailer for Happy Gilmore 2 suggests that there will be multiple cameos from famous golfers and other celebrities. Mark your calendars for July 25th to see if this sequel lives up to the hype.
