Happy Gilmore 2: The Tribute, the Cameos, the Comedy — Why Everyone’s Talking About It
- Jomanda Heng
- Aug 2, 2025
- 3 min read
When Adam Sandler first swung his hockey stick-turned-golf club in 1996’s Happy Gilmore, no one could have predicted that nearly three decades later, fans would be cheering for a sequel. But in 2025, Happy Gilmore 2 landed on Netflix and immediately made history, proving that some legends only get better with time.
Smashing Netflix Records
The sequel debuted on July 25, 2025, and wasted no time climbing the charts. In just three days, it racked up 46.7 million views, officially becoming the biggest U.S. opening weekend ever for a Netflix film. Not only did it surpass other comedy hits, but it also boosted the original Happy Gilmore back into Netflix’s top 10, with another 11.4 million views pouring in as fans relived the classic.
This wasn’t just a hit — it was a cultural event, setting a new standard for comedy blockbusters on streaming platforms.
A Subtle Yet Powerful Cameron Boyce Tribute
Beyond the slapstick humour and golf chaos, the film carries a tender emotional note. Fans quickly noticed a quiet tribute to the late Cameron Boyce, Sandler’s on-screen son in Grown Ups. The nod, appearing as a subtle Easter egg in the background, reminded viewers of Boyce’s lasting legacy and Sandler’s deep connection to him.
The film also pays respect to other beloved stars from the original who have since passed — including Bob Barker, Carl Weathers, and Frances Bay — making Happy Gilmore 2 not only a comedy but a heartfelt homage.
Star-Studded Cameos That Steal the Show
If the plot wasn’t enough to draw viewers in, the cameo list certainly was. Alongside returning faces like Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald (Shooter McGavin), Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, and Kevin Nealon, the movie is stacked with new celebrity appearances.
Among them:
Bad Bunny (as Happy’s lively new caddie)
Scottie Scheffler, whose dry humour had fans calling him the “surprise star” of the film
Travis Kelce, whose natural screen presence drew praise
Rap icons Eminem and Post Malone
Golf greats like Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, and Jordan Spieth
And even WWE star Becky Lynch
With over 60 cameos in total, Happy Gilmore 2 feels less like a film and more like a star-packed comedy festival.
All We Need to Know: The Plot That Drives It
The story picks up nearly 30 years after Happy Gilmore’s legendary Tour Championship win. This time, Happy is older, grappling with grief and alcoholism, while trying to fund his daughter’s dream of becoming a ballerina. Drawn back into the world of golf, he seeks to find his “Happy Place” once more.
The film balances slapstick comedy and over-the-top gags with deeper themes of resilience, loss, and second chances. Packed with callbacks to the 1996 original — from Happy’s hockey jersey to the infamous “You can do it!” line — it feels both fresh and familiar.
Why Happy Gilmore 2 Is a Must-Watch
Record-Breaking Buzz – The biggest U.S. Netflix film debut ever proves this isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a cultural phenomenon.
Heartfelt Moments – The Cameron Boyce tribute and nods to fallen stars add unexpected emotional weight.
A Celebrity Playground – With A-list athletes, musicians, and actors, the cameos alone are worth the watch.
Nostalgia Done Right – Packed with Easter eggs for longtime fans while still offering a fresh storyline.
Sandler at His Best – Blending his classic chaotic humour with mature themes, Sandler reminds us why Happy Gilmore remains iconic.
Final Swing
Happy Gilmore 2 is more than just a sequel — it’s a celebration. A celebration of comedy, of legacy, of sports culture, and of the fans who kept Happy alive all these years. With its record-breaking debut, touching tributes, and a cameo list that reads like an award-show guest roster, this is one movie that belongs on your watchlist.
References
People – “Adam Sandler's ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ Scores Biggest U.S. Opening Weekend of All Time for Netflix Movie”https://people.com/adam-sandler-happy-gilmore-2-biggest-us-opening-weekend-netflix-11781366
GamesRadar – “Happy Gilmore 2 breaks Netflix records to become the streamer's biggest US film opening”https://www.gamesradar.com/entertainment/comedy-movies/happy-gilmore-2-breaks-netflix-records-to-become-the-streamers-biggest-us-film-opening-and-even-kpop-demon-hunters-cant-keep-up
People – “18 Easter Eggs in Happy Gilmore 2 You Might Have Missed”https://people.com/all-the-easter-eggs-in-happy-gilmore-2-11782122
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