Excitement for “Happy Gilmore 2” is through the roof—but there’s also a bittersweet feeling in the air. The sequel to the 1996 classic arrives without one of its most beloved characters, Chubbs Peterson, following the passing of Carl Weathers earlier this year. While fans are eager to return to Happy’s chaotic golf world, they’re also deeply aware of the emotional weight this film now carries.
“Happy Gilmore”: A Tribute to Carl Weathers
Carl Weathers passed away on February 1, 2024, at the age of 76. To many, he was more than just an actor—he was a legend. Whether throwing punches in Rocky, going toe-to-toe with Schwarzenegger in “Predator”, or guiding Happy with charm and a wooden hand, Weathers brought unforgettable energy to the screen.
Adam Sandler opened up about how deeply Carl Weathers’ passing impacted the making of “Happy Gilmore 2 to Collider“. The two had been in touch about the sequel and were excited to bring Chubbs back in a meaningful way. But everything changed when Weathers died.
“I would talk to Carl, and we were excited, and then Carl passed away,” continued the “Uncut Gems” star. “We had to rewrite a lot of the stuff, and even what the story was. We made a lot of nice references to how great Chubbs was in the movie. That was the biggest change.”
Reworking the script after Weathers’ death wasn’t just a creative challenge—it was an emotional one. Sandler and the team wanted to make sure Chubbs was still a part of the story, even if he couldn’t be there in person. The result is a sequel filled with tributes to the character and the actor who brought him to life, ensuring his legacy is honored with both humor and heart.
“Happy Gilmore 2”: A Sequel With Heart
Originally, Chubbs had a significant part in “Happy Gilmore 2”, which meant the team had to rethink everything after Weathers’ passing. Sandler admitted, “We had to rewrite a lot of the stuff, and even what the story was.” What started as a comedy quickly became something more layered—a film about grief, memory, and legacy.
In earlier drafts, Chubbs was set to appear in Happy’s dreams, joined by a son who blamed Happy for his father’s fate. That emotional storyline, even if it doesn’t fully remain, helped shape the new direction of the film—one that honors Weathers’ influence while acknowledging his absence.
While Chubbs won’t physically be in the sequel, his presence will be everywhere. Director Kyle Newacheck promised that “his spirit is throughout the sequel,” and longtime fans can expect references and heartfelt nods to the character woven into the story.
Chubbs wasn’t just a side character—he was a symbol of second chances, redemption, and support. His bond with Happy helped define the first movie, and that legacy remains a key part of the new one.
For fans of the original, the pressure’s on. How do you revisit a world that’s lost one of its most iconic voices? The filmmakers know this isn’t just about laughs—it’s about making something that feels right. The cast, both old and new, are ready for the challenge. Adam Sandler returns alongside familiar faces like Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen, and Ben Stiller. Newcomers like Travis Kelce and Bad Bunny add a fresh vibe to the sequel, but the heart of the film still lies in the relationships that started it all.
July 25 Can’t Come Soon Enough
“Happy Gilmore 2” hits Netflix on July 25, and the buzz is real. Teasers and behind-the-scenes clips have fans counting down the days, wondering how the film will strike the balance between honoring the past and delivering the laughs we love.
But for many, this sequel isn’t just another chapter—it’s a goodbye letter, a thank-you note, and a celebration all rolled into one.
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