The 2023 golf film “Happy Gilmore” features an impressive cast of professional golfers in a plethora of comedic roles. While some cameos fell flat, many stood out as genuinely entertaining and memorable. Here’s our definitive tier list ranking the 22 golfers from most basic to most spectacular.
Tier 1: Just sat there – Keegan Bradley
Keegan Bradley’s appearance was limited to one scene, where he simply sat down without speaking.
Tier 2: Had one very pointless chat – Bubba Watson
Bubba Watson had a brief, unremarkable conversation with Happy Gilmore at one point in the film.
Tier 3: Old guys with one very basic line – Nick Faldo and Corey Pavin
Nick Faldo and Corey Pavin delivered their lines without any notable flair, serving only to advance the plot.
Tier 4: Underused Straight Men – Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka
Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka were relegated to relatively minor roles with limited screen time.
Tier 5: Underused Fanboy – Justin Thomas
Justin Thomas had a brief, one-liner appearance in the film, showcasing his golfing prowess but little else.
Tier 6: Can’t Stop Giggling Guy – Rickie Fowler
Rickie Fowler’s reaction shots stole the show, as he struggled to maintain a straight face throughout several scenes.
Tier 7: Serious, possibly empathetic doctor – Nancy Lopez
Nancy Lopez delivered a surprisingly nuanced performance as a compassionate doctor with a soft spot for Benihana.
Tier 8: Bored, slightly menacing doctor – Nelly Korda
Nelly Korda exuded an air of boredom and menace in her cameo, making a lasting impression on screen.
Tier 9: Mr. Gravitas – Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus brought gravity to the film with his authoritative presence, serving as a voice of reason during key scenes.
Tier 10: “I grind them in my apple sauce” – Lee Trevino
Lee Trevino’s distinctive cadence and deadpan delivery made this line a memorable, if somewhat confusing, moment.
Tier 11: Happy Hype Man – Collin Morikawa
Collin Morikawa shone as the over-the-top Happy Gilmore supporter, delivering a performance that was both enthusiastic and convincing.
Tier 12: Invisible Swing Double – Hunter Mahan
Hunter Mahan’s stunt double work was impressive, allowing Adam Sandler to focus on the main story while still making a lasting impact.
Tier 13: The Unexpected Genius – Scottie Scheffler
Scottie Scheffler surprised audiences with his natural talent and charisma, elevating several scenes in the film.
Tier 14: Facial Expression Master – Xander Schauffele
Xander Schauffele’s mastery of facial expressions brought humor to every scene he appeared in, making him a standout performer.
Tier 15: The Single Weirdest Line – Bryson DeChambeau
Bryson DeChambeau delivered a shocking line about protecting his friend Rory’s nipples, leaving viewers stunned and entertained.
Tier 16: I’m Not Sure He Was Acting – John Daly
John Daly proved an expert natural in his cameo as Happy Gilmore’s brother, displaying uncanny acting chops without realizing he was on screen.
Tier 17: The Gin Snob – Jordan Spieth
Jordan Spieth convincingly played the part of a pretentious golfer who demands specific gin brands, making for an amusing cameo.
Tier 18: Dessert Creep – Fred Couples
Fred Couples brought a disturbing charm to his role as a creepy dessert connoisseur, leaving viewers both amused and unsettled.
Tier 19: The Breakout Star – Will Zalatoris
Will Zalatoris stole the show with his impressive comedic performance as the caddie who becomes a villain, showcasing undeniable talent.
Tier 20: The Badass Boss Bird – Charley Hull
Charley Hull’s brief but explosive appearance left an indelible mark on screen, cementing her status as a golf comedy legend.
Source: https://www.golfdigest.com/story/a-definitive-ranking-of-every-golfer-cameo-in-happy-gilmore-2