Can Highly Anticipated Happy Gilmore 2 meet lofty expectations?

Let’s face it: we don’t get many great golf movies, so when one comes along, it’s a kind of a big deal. That’s why I’m pumped about the announcement of Happy Gilmore 2! The original Happy Gilmore (1996) is a comedy classic, giving us one of the funniest and most memorable golfers in movie history—Shooter McGavin. Who could forget his antics and his quest for that coveted gold jacket? I wonder if he ever got it…

Now, nearly 30 years later, the long-awaited sequel has dropped its first trailer, and the hype is real. Adam Sandler is back as Happy Gilmore, the hockey player-turned-golf pro with a swing as unconventional as his temper. Joining him are familiar faces like Julie Bowen, reprising her role as Virginia Venit, and Christopher McDonald returning as the iconic Shooter McGavin.

But Happy Gilmore 2 isn’t just about nostalgia.

The sequel introduces new characters played by some unexpected stars. NFL great Travis Kelce makes a hilarious cameo as a hotel employee, and Grammy-winner Bad Bunny takes on a mysterious role. Other fresh additions to the cast include Margaret Qualley, Nick Swardson, Scott Mescudi (Kid Cudi), and Benny Safdie, bringing fresh energy to the story. There are rumors about a cart girl role but they have been pretty tight-lipped.

While the trailer teases plenty of laughs and a rekindled rivalry between Happy and Shooter, it’s impossible not to feel the absence of two beloved figures from the original: the late Bob Barker, who hilariously took on Happy in the most unforgettable golf fight ever, and Carl Weathers, who played Happy’s mentor, Chubbs Peterson was too funny. Their roles were iconic, and we can only hope the sequel pays homage to their contributions to this comedy classic.

Directed by Kyle Newacheck and co-written by Sandler and Tim Herlihy, the film promises the humor and Adam Sandler comedy hijinks that made the original a fan favorite. Scheduled for release on Netflix in December 2025, it’s shaping up to be the comedy event of the year.

Will this sequel hold up to the original’s legendary status? Can Shooter McGavin steal the show once again? And will there be a heartfelt nod to Bob Barker and Chubbs Peterson? I can’t wait to find out. Here’s hoping Happy Gilmore 2 lives up to the hype and doesn't hold back.