Despite years of separation from one of his first breakout roles, Adam Sandler is set to return to play Happy Gilmore with the announcement of Happy Gilmore 2.
The official news comes after intense speculation of the comedic acto potentially reprising his role as the famous golfing champion. Now, Netflix has announced its plans to roll out plans for Happy Gilmore 2 with Sandler signed on in the lead role.
Previously, Sandler has offered various takes on the new version of Happy Gilmore, including a scenario in which the entire film would take place at a senior golfing tournament. Drew Barrymore also said that she had received information that the sequel was in production, which she claimed to have heard directly from Sandler.
Rumours of the sequel also began to heat up when Christopher McDonald, best known for playing Shooter McGavin, hinted that the film was in the works, recalling, “I saw Adam about two weeks ago, and he says to me, ‘McDonald, you’re gonna love this. ‘I said, ‘What? ‘ He says, ‘How about that,’ and he shows me the first draft of Happy Gilmore 2.”
The announcement comes amidst a major deal that Sandler has had with Netflix. The former Saturday Night Live star is currently riding the crest of a wave, and was recently named as the best-paid actor for 2023, despite none of his movies receiving a traditional theatrical release.
Last year, Sandler earned £57 million thanks to the platform. He released three films directly on Netflix, a platform he has been working exclusively with since 2015. In addition to starring in Murder Mystery 2 with Jennifer Aniston and You Are So Not Invited To My Bah-Mitzvah, Sandler also appeared in the animated film, Leo.
When the Happy Gilmore sequel arrives, Netflix will unsurprisingly be its home. In 2020, Sandler signed a new four-movie deal with Netflix reported to be worth $275 million, and due to the success of his most-recent projects, the contract will likely be renewed upon expiration.
Sadly, the upcoming movie will be made without one crucial cast member, Carl Weathers, who passed away earlier this year. In tribute to the late actor, Sandler said: “Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognised worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”
As of yet, there has been no word on when production will start on Happy Gilmore 2 and a potential release date.
