The cast list forHappy Gilmore 2continues to grow, with the latest addition being a popular wrestling star. After years of speculation, it was announced in May that Netflix was officially moving forward with a sequel to 1996’sHappy Gilmore. The long-awaited follow-up will be directed by Kyle Newacheck, who worked with Sandler on 2019’sMurder Mystery. The script will is by Tim Herlihy and Sandler and, although plot details are under wraps, the cast list is filling up.
Deadlinenow confirms thatMaxwell Jacob Friedman, known to AEW fans as MJF, has joined the sequel.Character details are under wraps for Friedman, who made his big screen debut in the A24 wrestling dramaThe Iron Claw. The former AEW World Champion joins an ensemble that is confirmed to include Margaret Qualley, Bad Bunny, and Benny Safdie. Two actors from the original, Julie Bowen and Christopher McDonald, reprise their respective roles as Virginia Venit and Shooter McGavin.
What To Know About MJF
He’s One Of AEW’s Biggest Stars
A part of All Elite Wrestling since the company’s beginning, MJF is the biggest star to come out of the relatively new wrestling promotion. Since the company began airing its weekly showDynamitein late 2019,Friedman has emerged as a crowd favoriteeven when he’s playing a loathsome bad guy. He has been in memorable matches with CM Punk and Bryan Danielson, both wrestling legends, but the longest-reigning AEW champion has also helped produce some of AEW’s most stunning moments and storylines thanks to his charisma and natural ability to perform.
Why Maxwell Jacob Friedman’s Role As Lance Von Erich Was So Small In The Iron Claw
Maxwell Jacob Friedman’s role as Lance Von Erich in The Iron Claw is surprisingly small, which makes it hard not to wonder if his part was cut short.
Because of the secrecy around theupcomingHappy Gilmore 2, it’s difficult to speculate too wildly on Friedman’s role. His part inThe Iron Claw, which MJF also executive produced, had him playing a fictional Von Erich brother alongside Zac Efron. Even though Friedman is still visible in the firm, the wrestler and producer explained that his lines were cut to make room for the heavy drama’s other stories.His involvement inHappy Gilmore 2could be a greater springboard, given the original’s legacy.
Our Take On MJF Joining Happy Gilmore
It’s A High-Profile Gig
Friedman has other movies coming up. He co-writes in the comedyThe Floaters, which featuresAustin Powersstar Seth Green andThe Boysalum Aya Cash. He’s also in the upcomingStrangleholdin a villain role opposite Ron Perlman, Jake Lacy, Ashley Benson, and Justin Long.
13 Best Actors Who Started Out As Wrestlers, Ranked
While several wrestlers went on to star in TV shows and movies after retiring from the sport, only a few have seen huge successes as actors.
But being featured inHappy Gilmore 2may be his most visible big-screen outing yet, considering the international appeal of Sandler and the original’s impact. Directed by Dennis Dugan, and released by Universal Pictures, the first film grossed over $82 million worldwide. It’s a strong addition for a grappler who has been open about his goal of focusing on acting.
Happy Gilmore 2
Cast
Happy Gilmore 2 sees the return of Adam Sandler in his iconic role as the retired golfer who steps back onto the green to support his daughter’s passion for ballet. Released in 2025, the film explores Gilmore’s renewed journey in golf to finance her dreams.
