Happy Gilmore 2: Julie Bowen Surprised to Return After Nearly 30 Years
Almost three decades after the iconic comedy Happy Gilmore hit theaters, a highly anticipated sequel is finally set to premiere, and co-star Julie Bowen is still in disbelief about her return. The original film featured Adam Sandler as the unlikely golf champion Happy Gilmore, with Bowen playing Virginia Venit, the PR director for the pro golf tour and Happy’s love interest.
During Netflix’s Tudum event, the official trailer for Happy Gilmore 2 was unveiled, and Bowen shared her initial reaction with The Hollywood Reporter. “When I first heard about the sequel, I thought, ‘There’s no way I’ll be part of it,’” she confessed. “It’s been 30 years—Happy’s probably moved on to a younger love interest, maybe even a cart girl!”
Interestingly, Bowen’s children were among the first to inform her about the sequel. Her now 18-year-old son mentioned rumors of Sydney Sweeney being cast as a cart girl for Happy. “I was hurt but also respected that choice. Of course, why wouldn’t you?” she joked. When she received the official call about her return, Bowen couldn’t believe it. “I thought, ‘Are you sure? Really?’”
The sequel promises a fresh twist with a star-studded lineup, including Bad Bunny, Margaret Qualley, Benny Safdie, Travis Kelce, Kym Whitley, and even Eminem making special appearances. Bowen, a huge Bad Bunny fan, shared her excitement about working with him. “Seeing Bad Bunny on set was surreal! I was so starstruck that I couldn’t even look him in the eye. I ended up walking away, which I think might have offended him. I had to circle back, which just made it more awkward,” she laughed. “I tend to avoid meeting my heroes because I fear I’ll embarrass myself.”
Mark your calendars! Happy Gilmore 2 will start streaming on Netflix on July 25. Get ready for a new chapter in this beloved story filled with laughter and nostalgia!