Ben Stiller is set to reprise his role from Happy Gilmore in the much-anticipated sequel, Happy Gilmore 2, which is currently being filmed in New Jersey with Netflix backing the project.
The film will see Adam Sandler return as the titular character, joined by Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin and Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit, Happy's love interest. The sequel also introduces new cast members, including comedian Nick Swardson, director Benny Safdie, musician Bad Bunny, actor Margaret Qualley, Scott Mescudi, and NFL star Travis Kelce. Sandler said in a recent interview that director and screenwriter Benny Safdie also plays a key role in Happy Gilmore 2.
Although Netflix has not commented on Stiller’s involvement, photos from the set confirm he will reprise his character Hal, the over-the-top nursing home orderly from the original. This sequel is being directed by Kyle Newacheck, with Sandler co-writing the script alongside frequent collaborator Tim Herlihy.
The original 1996 film, directed by Dennis Dugan, was pivotal in establishing Sandler’s career. The plot followed Happy Gilmore, a hot-headed hockey player who unexpectedly excels at golf in order to save his grandmother’s house. The plot for the sequel is largely under wraps.
Sandler and Tim Herlihy will be producing alongside Jack Giarraputo and Robert Simonds. The original film’s director, Dennis Dugan, is exec producing alongside Judit Maull, Kevin Grady, David Bausch and Barry Bernardi.