Julie Bowen, well-known for her role as Virginia Venit in the 1996 comedy ‘Happy Gilmore’ and for starring in ‘Modern Family,’ was caught off guard by her return in the upcoming sequel, feeding into ongoing buzz around the Sydney Sweeney rumored as Happy Gilmore 2 replacement. During a recent interview, Bowen shared her surprise over being cast again amid speculation about a new star joining Adam Sandler in the franchise.
Rumors Stir as Sydney Sweeney’s Name Surfaces
Bowen explained she had believed a much younger actress was set to take her place in the anticipated Netflix release. Speaking candidly, she referenced how these rumors even reached her own children before official news came out. The circulating talk suggested Sydney Sweeney, a prominent name in today’s entertainment world, would feature as a cart girl alongside Adam Sandler’s character in the new film. The confusion arose well before Bowen was notified about her inclusion.
“I thought, ‘Well I won’t be in it. And that was OK — it was like Virginia Venit, it’s been 30 years, he’s got a hottie. He’s got some little bitty on the side, like a cart girl. As a matter of fact my children told me, before I was even told officially that there was a Happy Gilmore sequel, my now 18-year-old said, ‘Mom, I hear they’re doing a sequel and he’s with Sydney Sweeney as a cart girl,’”
—Julie Bowen, actor
Bowen’s Reaction to the Casting News
Bowen admitted surprise and some hesitation upon learning she would actually continue her role in the universe. The emotional impact of the rumors and her ultimate return created a sense of disbelief mixed with respect for the direction the film could have taken.
“I went, ‘I’m hurt and I so respect that move. Of course, why wouldn’t you?’ So when I got the call that I was actually in it, I was like, ‘Are you sure? Come on,’”
—Julie Bowen, actor
Release Information and What’s Next
With the sequel’s release slated for July 25 on Netflix, fans are eager to see Julie Bowen alongside Adam Sandler once again. The buzz around Sydney Sweeney rumored as Happy Gilmore 2 replacement brought a modern twist to the conversation, but the original star’s confirmed participation reaffirms continuity in the beloved universe. As speculation gives way to anticipation, long-time followers and new audiences alike await the film’s debut and the return of its memorable characters.
