Adam Sandler Opens Up About Working With Eminem for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ — A Reunion Full of Laughs, Surprises, and Unexpected Chemistry

When fans first heard the news that Happy Gilmore was getting a sequel nearly three decades after the original, excitement rippled through Hollywood and beyond. But the real shocker? Rap legend Eminem joining Adam Sandler on set. In a recent interview, Sandler opened up about the experience, giving fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what it was like blending his signature comedy with Eminem’s unique energy.

“It was wild,” Sandler admitted, laughing as he recalled the first day of shooting. “I mean, you grow up watching Eminem on MTV, hearing every word of Lose Yourself, and then suddenly, you’re standing next to him, hitting golf balls in a wig, and he’s delivering lines with the kind of intensity only he can bring. It’s like, ‘Okay, this is happening. This is really happening.’”

The original Happy Gilmore (1996) became an instant cult classic, with Sandler’s over-the-top, foul-mouthed hockey player-turned-golf sensation capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. Fans have long speculated about a sequel, but few could have imagined it coming back with a twist this big. Eminem, a Detroit native like the original film’s setting, seemed a natural, yet unexpected, addition. Sandler explained that the filmmakers didn’t want a simple cameo — they wanted Eminem to be fully integrated into the story.

“Marshall [Eminem] is brilliant,” Sandler said, using the rapper’s real name. “He’s funny in ways people don’t expect. He has this dry, sarcastic sense of humor, but he’s also incredibly serious when it comes to his craft. On set, it was like having a secret weapon — you never knew if the next take would make you laugh or blow your mind. He’s like a ninja of comedy and intensity rolled into one.”

One of the most talked-about scenes involves a golf tournament sequence where Happy faces off against a rival character, played by none other than Eminem himself. According to Sandler, the scene required perfect timing, both in dialogue delivery and physical comedy.

“We rehearsed it a few times, but honestly, nothing could prepare me for the energy he brought,” Sandler said. “There’s a moment where he throws a golf club — don’t worry, no one got hurt — and I just started laughing so hard I forgot my lines. The crew was cracking up too. It was one of those magical moments that makes you realize why you love doing this.”

Eminem reportedly enjoyed stepping into the comedy world in a way that contrasted with his musical persona. “I’ve done a lot of intense roles, and my music is… well, intense too,” he said in a separate interview. “But doing comedy with Adam? That was freeing. You get to be ridiculous and just have fun. And Adam is the king of letting you do that while still keeping it sharp.”

Fans are particularly excited about the way Happy Gilmore 2 nods to the original without feeling like a mere retread. Sandler promises plenty of Easter eggs for longtime viewers while introducing new storylines that keep the film fresh. And Eminem’s presence isn’t just a gimmick — his character has depth, humor, and an unexpected emotional arc that even surprised Sandler.

“There’s this scene where you think he’s just going to be a straight-up antagonist,” Sandler teased. “But then he drops this line — I don’t want to spoil it — and it hit me in the heart. I turned to the director and said, ‘Wait, did we just make a heartfelt moment with Eminem?’ And he nodded, totally dead serious. It’s amazing how he can do that.”

Of course, the film isn’t just about cameos and celebrity moments. Sandler emphasized that the heart of Happy Gilmore — its mix of absurd humor, slapstick, and genuine emotion — remains intact. But the sequel also pushes boundaries, blending Sandler’s comedy with Eminem’s raw, unpredictable energy in a way that feels entirely new.

Sandler also noted the personal camaraderie that developed between him and Eminem during filming. “We spent a lot of time off set, just talking about life, music, comedy, golf — weirdly, all three at once,” Sandler laughed. “He’s surprisingly humble and funny in casual conversation. I think audiences are going to love seeing that side of him.”

With the release date now set and trailers hinting at outrageous stunts, clever one-liners, and a fair share of golf-related chaos, anticipation for Happy Gilmore 2 is at an all-time high. Sandler concluded the interview with a grin: “Honestly, I don’t think anyone expected Eminem in this movie, and I don’t think anyone expected the movie to be this much fun. We just hope people laugh, maybe cry a little, and remember why they fell in love with Happy in the first place.”

Whether you’re a fan of Sandler’s slapstick charm, Eminem’s lyrical genius, or just great storytelling, Happy Gilmore 2 promises to deliver an experience that’s as surprising as it is hilarious. One thing is certain: this isn’t your typical comedy sequel — it’s a collision of worlds that somehow works perfectly, and it’s ready to leave audiences talking long after the credits roll.