Introduction to Happy Gilmore 2
Adam Sandler recently revealed that he had to rewrite the script for Happy Gilmore 2 after the death of Carl Weathers, who played the role of Chubbs Peterson in the original film. Weathers was set to reprise his role in the sequel before he passed away last year at the age of 76.
The Impact of Carl Weathers’ Death on the Script
Sandler told Collider that Weathers had a significant part in the film, and his death required major changes to the script. "We had a painful change. Carl Weathers had a massive part," said Sandler. "I would talk to Carl and we were excited and then Carl died. We had to rewrite a lot of things, and even what the story was." The team made sure to include nice nods to Chubbs’ character in the film, honoring his memory.
Original Plans for Chubbs’ Character
In the initial version of the script, Chubbs had a much larger presence, including a son who was angry with Happy Gilmore for causing his father’s death. Sandler shared that Chubbs’ character was supposed to have a significant role in the story, but unfortunately, that was no longer possible after Weathers’ passing.
The Character of Chubbs Peterson
For those who may not be familiar, Chubbs Peterson was a professional golfer in the original Happy Gilmore film, played by Carl Weathers. Chubbs was forced to retire after his hand was bitten off by an alligator, and he used a wooden hand to continue playing golf.
Happy Gilmore 2 Release and Cast
The sequel, directed by Kyle Newacheck, is set to premiere on Netflix on July 25th. The cast includes returning actors Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen, and Ben Stiller, as well as new additions Bad Bunny, Margaret Qualley, Benny Safdie, Travis Kelce, and Kym Whitley.
Tribute to Carl Weathers
After Weathers’ death, Sandler took to social media to pay tribute to his former co-star, calling him a "true great man" and sharing fond memories of their time together. The rewrite of the script was a way for the team to honor Weathers’ memory and ensure that his character’s legacy lived on in the film.