UPDATE: The highly anticipated sequel, Happy Gilmore 2, has just begun streaming on Netflix, and director Dennis Dugan is sharing exciting insights about its production and the return of fan-favorite characters.
Dugan, who directed the original Happy Gilmore, discussed the sequel during a recent interview. He revealed that the first talks about a sequel began after the success of Grown Ups 2 nearly a decade ago. “That was like 10 years ago, but I think that’s when it started to be like, ‘Hey, maybe this can happen,’” he stated.
In Happy Gilmore 2, Dugan reprises his role as pro golf commissioner Doug Thompson alongside Adam Sandler, who returns as the iconic hockey player-turned-golfer. The sequel also brings back Julie Bowen and Christopher McDonald in their original roles, generating buzz among fans and brands alike.
“It’s definitely true to the original, in spirit and in comedy. Because it is crazy funny,” Dugan emphasized.
With the film now streaming, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and fresh humor. Dugan noted that he was thrilled to reunite with McDonald, praising him as “an absolutely great guy.” He expressed how enjoyable it was to work again with familiar faces, stating, “Getting back with all of the old players in [the movie] was really fun.”
In a nod to the original film’s quirky charm, Dugan teased that there is “plenty of Doug Thompson” in the new movie, promising audiences they will leave satisfied. “They’re going to walk out and say, ‘That was a really good movie. And it was just exactly enough Doug Thompson,’” he joked.
As part of the promotional frenzy surrounding the sequel’s release, Subway launched a special Happy Gilmore meal on July 10, 2024, featuring a limited-edition cup. Additionally, Callaway introduced a $500 limited-edition Odyssey Hockey Stick Putter, inspired by the one used in the original film, which has already sold out.
Dugan shared the origins of that iconic hockey putter, revealing, “I invented the hockey putter. I said, ‘Hey, he’s a hockey player. Let’s see if some golf company will make a hockey putter for us.’ And it was Odyssey.” He laughed as he recounted how challenging it was for Sandler to handle the original putter, which was made of metal.
The excitement for Happy Gilmore 2 has skyrocketed since it was first confirmed in May 2024. Dugan expressed appreciation for the support from Netflix, stating that the team was “really nice” and showed genuine excitement about the film.
As the sequel gains traction, fans are eager to see if there will be more Sandler sequels in the future. Dugan hinted at the possibility of Grown Ups 3 and revisiting You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, saying, “There’s always been talk about Grown Ups 3.”
The film’s release marks nearly 30 years since the original hit theaters, and Dugan is confident that audiences will embrace the sequel. “It’s funny. They don’t stop the funniness of it,” he concluded.
With Happy Gilmore 2 now available for streaming, fans are encouraged to tune in and relive the laughter. Don’t miss out on what Dugan promises is a truly hilarious return to the beloved franchise.
