Grab your hockey stick putters, dust off your Boston Bruins jerseys, and get ready for some outrageous golf antics — because “Happy Gilmore 2” is officially happening, and it’s shaping up to be the ultimate nostalgia-fueled comedy of the summer.
The highly-anticipated sequel to Adam Sandler’s 1996 cult golf classic is set to premiere on Netflix on July 25, and according to Christopher McDonald — who famously played the villainous Shooter McGavin — fans are in for a treat.
TMZ Sports caught up with McDonald, 70, at LAX this week, and while he remained tight-lipped due to an NDA, the actor couldn’t hide his excitement.
“It’s going to be fantastic,” McDonald said with a big grin. “I can’t say much… but I love me, so I know it’s good!”
That’s vintage Shooter right there.
Shooter and Happy Reunite for Round Two
In the original “Happy Gilmore,” Sandler played the hot-headed hockey player-turned-golfing underdog who took on the snobby Shooter McGavin in an unforgettable battle for the Tour Championship. The film became an instant fan favorite, combining Sandler’s slapstick humor with heart, ridiculous golf scenes, and some truly iconic quotes.
Nearly three decades later, the sequel picks up where the classic left off — exploring what happened in the decades since Happy triumphed over Shooter. From the teasers already released, it looks like the two arch-nemeses are gearing up for one last epic showdown on the green.
Star-Studded Cast: Celebrities Are Joining the Fun
If the return of Sandler and McDonald isn’t exciting enough, “Happy Gilmore 2” is adding even more star power to the course. The sequel boasts a jaw-dropping cast of celebrity cameos, including:
- Bad Bunny – The reggaeton superstar is expected to play himself in a comedic twist.
- Travis Kelce – The Kansas City Chiefs tight end and Taylor Swift’s current beau will also make an appearance.
- John Daly – The golf legend, known for his wild personality, will surely fit right in.
- Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy – Two of the PGA’s biggest names are confirmed for hilarious interactions with Sandler and McDonald.
It’s golf, comedy, and celebrity culture all wrapped into one wild cinematic package.
The Internet Is Losing It
Social media went into a frenzy the moment news of the sequel dropped.
On X (formerly Twitter), fans expressed pure joy over the reunion:
“Shooter McGavin and Happy Gilmore back on the same course? Take my money already. #HappyGilmore2”
“Adam Sandler bringing back Happy is the kind of healing the world needs right now.”
“Bad Bunny, Travis Kelce, and Rory McIlroy in the same movie? I didn’t have this on my 2025 bingo card, but I’m all in!”
Even some current PGA pros joined the hype, jokingly tweeting about cameo envy and speculating on who might win in a real-life showdown between Happy and Shooter.
Why This Sequel Matters
In a time when Hollywood is flooded with reboots and revivals, “Happy Gilmore 2” stands out because of how deeply loved the original still is. Sandler’s portrayal of Happy — the underdog with a big heart and a temper to match — struck a chord with fans from all walks of life.
The film’s memorable quotes like “The price is wrong, b*h!**” and “Just tap it in” have become permanent parts of pop culture. Shooter McGavin, meanwhile, became one of the most memorable movie villains of the ’90s, with McDonald’s smug charisma earning him a cult following of his own.
Bringing the two back together on screen is a nostalgic gift for longtime fans and a fun intro for a whole new generation.
What to Expect From ‘Happy Gilmore 2’
While McDonald couldn’t spill much — thanks to that ironclad NDA — we already know a few juicy details from preview clips and early leaks:
- Happy Gilmore is now a seasoned legend of the golf world, possibly mentoring younger players or facing retirement.
- Shooter McGavin hasn’t given up on trying to outshine Happy, and the two are likely thrust into a rematch scenario—maybe for charity, legacy, or just good old-fashioned pride.
- The sequel will blend golf, comedy, wild cameos, and heartfelt moments, just like the original.
The movie is being developed under Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions, and insiders say it’s loaded with the kind of humor fans expect — from physical gags and trash talk to sports parodies and emotional beats.
Christopher McDonald: Shooter for Life
McDonald has fully embraced his role as Shooter McGavin over the years, often joking with fans in public and even staying in character for interviews. In fact, his online persona “Shooter McGavin” has taken on a life of its own, with a popular Twitter account that dishes out hilarious golf hot takes.
He’s said in the past that “Happy Gilmore” changed his life — and clearly, he’s thrilled to be stepping back into the role for one more round.
Presidents Who Golf: A Bonus Interview Moment
During his brief airport chat with TMZ, McDonald even had a little fun with a random topic — golfing presidents. When asked about which former commander-in-chief he’d love to tee off with, he joked:
“Well, I’d love to take on Obama… but you know Shooter doesn’t play fair!”
It was a perfect moment of in-character swagger that fans of the original film will appreciate.
Countdown to July 25: Let the Rivalry Resume
With just a few months left before its premiere, the buzz around “Happy Gilmore 2” continues to build. The reunion of Adam Sandler and Christopher McDonald is set to deliver a hilarious, star-packed sequel that celebrates everything fans loved about the original while giving it a modern, celebrity-infused twist.
So whether you’re a longtime fan of the classic or a new viewer who loves a good sports comedy, one thing is clear:
Happy’s back. Shooter’s still smug. And golf will never be the same.
Stay Tuned
We’ll be covering every sneak peek, trailer drop, and behind-the-scenes moment as the “Happy Gilmore 2” release date approaches. For more celebrity movie news, nostalgia reboots, and pop culture exclusives, keep it locked right here