Adam Sandler: Big Return with Happy Gilmore 2 Sparks Buzz

New York City (July 26, 2025) — Nearly three decades after Happy Gilmore vaulted him to comedy stardom, Adam Sandler is back in the iconic role that defined his early career. Happy Gilmore 2 premiered on Netflix on Friday, July 25, unleashing a wave of nostalgia, star‑studded cameos, and heated fan reactions.

Sequel Release & Streaming Debut

Directed by Kyle Newacheck and co‑written by Sandler alongside longtime collaborator Tim Herlihy, Happy Gilmore 2 arrives on Netflix July 25, 2025, fulfilling a long‑awaited promise to fans. The film marks Sandler’s fifth release under his multi‑picture deal with the streamer.

In interviews leading up to release, Sandler revealed that persistent fan demand finally pushed him to revisit Happy sporting a hockey stick and a bad attitude—but now older, wiser, and more reflective.

On the Red Carpet: Premiere & Family Moments

Sandler celebrated the world premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City on July 21, joined by original castmates Ben Stiller, Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen, Dennis Dugan, and golfing legend John Daly. The comedian famously applauded his co‑cast—including pop icons Bad Bunny and Travis Kelce, calling their performances “ridiculous” in the best way.

Sandler and his wife Jackie exchanged a rare PDA moment that drew warm fan commentary. Sandler remained characteristically relaxed on the carpet—Hawaiian shirt and peach shorts—whereas Jackie dazzled in a sleek black dress. He expressed pride in otherwise working alongside family: daughters Sadie and Sunny appear in the film in supporting and pivotal role.

Celebrity Cameos & Guest Stars Fill the Cast

The sequel trades its nostalgia for spectacle: cameo appearances from household names abound.

Directed as a chase to fund Happy’s daughter(s) ballet school costs, the film features cameos from Eminem, Post Malone, Guy Fieri, Kid Cudi, Steve Buscemi, Sean Evans, Ken Jennings, Rob Schneider and various pro‑golfers like Jack Nicklaus and Rory McIlroy. Despite public speculation, Sydney Sweeney does not appear in the movie.

Sandler admitted that he initially almost didn't ask Eminem—who portrays a heckler—to participate, hesitant to impose. Yet the rapper accepted and punctuates one of the film’s funniest beats.

Plot Twist Ignites Fan Outrage

Within minutes of the opening montage, Happy Gilmore 2 reveals a shocking twist: Happy accidentally kills his longtime partner Virginia Venit (played by Julie Bowen)—a storyline that fan‑base reactions decried as emotionally abrupt.

Fans took to social media to express disappointment, accusing the film of undermining nostalgia and relying heavily on cameos rather than story. Bowen and Sandler defended the narrative choice, stating it establishes an emotional journey—creating stakes and heartfelt character motivation.

Despite heartfelt intentions, backlash continues: many consider it a jarring way to usher in a sequel to a beloved classic.

Critical & Public Reception: Mixed Signals

Early reviews align with tempered expectations. Critics note the film lacks the energy of the original, but still find comfort in Sandler’s familiar comedic style, calling it "warm and comfortable"—even if about 20 minutes could have been trimmed.

Meanwhile, public sentiment—as reflected in prediction market Kalshi—forecasts moderate success: the sequel is projected to earn roughly a 46.2% Tomatometer rating, though a handful of daring bets speculate it might exceed 90%.

Personal Reflections & Pop‑Culture Love

During press junkets, Sandler revealed surprising personal passions. He called himself a “professional Swiftie” in admiration of Taylor Swift, who he praised for her kindness toward his family. He also shared that he'd golfed with Justin Bieber, calling him a major fan—saying the singer’s athleticism impressed him.

Sims recalled a tender on‑set moment with Sandler: model and actress Jena Sims brought her one‑year‑old son, Crew, to introduce to Sandler and described the interaction as “so special.” She praised Sandler’s improvisational comedy skills, and recounted how Jackie Sandler’s warmth impressed the entire crew.

Current & Future Projects: Sandler’s Beyond ‘Happy’

Sandler remains firmly in the mix beyond Happy Gilmore 2. In 2025, he was honored with the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, with tributes from comedy icons such as Jennifer Aniston, Rob Schneider, Conan O’Brien, David Spade and others.

Additionally, Sandler is attached to the upcoming Noah Baumbach ensemble dramedy Jay Kelly, set for global release on Netflix November 14, 2025. The film also features George Clooney, Laura Dern, and Billy Crudup, exploring the bittersweet humor in friendship and fame.

Inside Happy Gilmore 2 & What Sandler Has Said

Sandler has described filming as “legendary,” citing the mix of returning actors, sporting legends, and surprise celebrity guests as part of what made production special. He especially praised Travis Kelce, who plays a hotel employee—calling him a “great actor” and describing his on‑screen chemistry with Sandler and Bad Bunny as unexpectedly effective.

His co‑star Julie Bowen admitted she feared producers would cast a younger actress instead, but valued the emotional arc her character’s shocking death brings to the sequel—a choice she ultimately “loved” despite fan backlash.