Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore 2 Crushes Netflix Opening Records
Adam Sandler’s long-awaited sequel Happy Gilmore 2 smashed Netflix viewing records over its debut weekend, pulling in an impressive 46.7 million views within its first three days. This launch marks the biggest U.S. opening weekend ever for a Netflix film, as defined by hours watched divided by the runtime, and outpaces all previous Sandler projects on the streamer.
Released on July 25, 2025, Happy Gilmore 2 dominated the Netflix Top 10 for English-language movies in the week of July 21–27, reaching No. 1 with its debut performance.
How Do The Numbers Work
Netflix’s “view” metric is based on total hours watched divided by total runtime, meaning the 46.7 million views reflect essentially complete viewings, not just clickthroughs. It was the highest opening weekend ever for any Sandler Netflix movie. The massive debut also reignited interest in the original Happy Gilmore (1996), which surged back onto Netflix’s global Top 10 with 11.4 million views, landing at No. 3, almost three decades after its theatrical release.
A Nostalgic Return That Delivered
The original Happy Gilmore, which made Sandler a household name, grossed roughly $41 million worldwide in 1996 upon its theatrical release. The sequel revisits Happy Gilmore decades later. Retired, grappling with alcoholism, and driven to return to golf to send his daughter to a prestigious ballet school in Paris. The film brings together the original cast, including Julie Bowen, Christopher McDonald, and Ben Stiller, while introducing high-profile cameos from Travis Kelce, Bad Bunny, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Will Zalatoris, Guy Fieri, Eminem and others. Sandler’s own family, his wife and children also appear onscreen. Critics, typically wary of Sandler sequels, responded with cautious praise. Rotten Tomatoes currently averages around 63%, placing it among the better-reviewed entries in Sandler’s Netflix catalog. Variety described it as “a happy orgy of raucous fan‑service nostalgia”.
Takeaway
With 46.7 million views in its first three days, Happy Gilmore 2 has etched its name in Netflix history as the most-watched U.S. film launch the platform has ever seen. By blending nostalgia with fresh energy, physical comedy with heartfelt themes, and star power with surprising cameos, Adam Sandler and his team delivered a streaming battering ram that spotlighted just how much fun a well‑executed sequel can be. The original film‘s resurgence on Netflix only adds to the triumph, reaffirming the timeless charm of Happy Gilmore’s unforgettable swing.
Source: variety
