Release Date, Full Cast & Cameo Updates for the Netflix Sequel of Happy Gilmore 2

July 25, 2025: Adam Sandler reprises his iconic role as Happy Gilmore in Happy Gilmore 2, releasing today exclusively on Netflix. Nearly three decades after the 1996 cult comedy, the sequel swings into action with nostalgic charm, celebrity cameos, and a brand-new storyline.

Release Date & Platform

The film drops worldwide on July 25, 2025, at 12:00 AM PT / 3:00 AM ET on Netflix—no theatrical release for this long-awaited return.

Image Credit: The Guardian

Storyline Twist

In the new plot, Happy comes out of retirement—not for glory, but to help his daughter Vienna’s ballet schooling. Expect the usual chaos: golf balls flying, support groups, high-stakes rivalries, and heartfelt moments amid the humor.

Returning Favorites & New Faces

Original cast reprising their roles:

Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin

Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit

Ben Stiller returns as Hal L.

Dennis Dugan appears as Doug Thompson

New supporting cast includes:

Bad Bunny as Happy’s caddie Oscar

Benny Safdie, Margaret Qualley, Maxwell Jacob Friedman, Sadie & Sunny Sandler (Happy’s real-life daughters), and more

Celebrity Cameos:
Extensive appearances by pro golfers (Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Jack Nicklaus), as well as Eminem, Post Malone, Travis Kelce, Reggie Bush, and wrestler Becky Lynch.

On-Set Highlights

NFL star Travis Kelce won praise from director Kyle Newacheck for his surprising comedic timing and professionalism. Kelce described the experience as “a dream come true.”

Fan Reactions & Early Reviews

The surprise early death of Virginia (played by Julie Bowen) sparked strong emotional reaction from fans, who felt the decision hurt the film’s emotional core. Some also criticized repeated use of celebrity cameos and nepotism.

Final Swing

Happy Gilmore 2 delivers a nostalgia-fueled second act for fans of the original, packed with cameos, familiar faces, and new surprises. Yet with emotional upheaval and mixed critical reception, it balances sentiment with slapstick—making it a must-watch, if only for the nostalgia tee shot.