Happy Gilmore is back! For the first time in nearly two decades, Chris McDonald has confirmed that Adam Sandler’s iconic hockey comedy will be rebooted as a sequel, titled Happy Gilmore 2. McDonald reprise his role as Shooter McGavin, and it seems he couldn’t be happier about the news.
The original film turned McDonald into a Hollywood star, but more importantly, it cemented his status as one of the most memorable movie villains ever. Who can forget his iconic line “I eat pieces of shit like you for breakfast!”? Even 30 years later, fans still recognize and greet him as Shooter McGavin.
McDonald’s ability to play memorable roles has kept him in show business longer than many leading men of his age. His transformation into Shooter started during the filming of Unforgettable in 1995. Director Dennis Dugan discovered McDonald in the lobby of his hotel and gave him the script, which led to a memorable role in Happy Gilmore.
McDonald’s performance as Shooter McGavin was so iconic that it inspired a nickname – the “Jerk Hall of Fame.” The actor has continued to play various roles throughout his career but never forgot about Shooter. In fact, he even begged Adam Sandler to cast him in future movies, which is now finally happening with Happy Gilmore 2.
The reboot will be an attempt at redemption for Shooter’s character. McDonald says he’s “just couldn’t be happier” about the news and that the project has started. With director Kyle Newacheck on board, fans can expect more of the same wit and humor that made the original so beloved.
As production begins, Chris McDonald seems to be embracing his new role as Shooter McGavin once again. The actor understands why people are drawn to the character – it’s hard to resist a good villain. Even Adam Sandler still calls him Shooter, demonstrating how iconic this role has become in popular culture.
Source: https://www.theringer.com/2025/07/23/movies/happy-gilmore-2-netflix-shooter-mcgavin