MJF Hails Adam Sandler as “Father Figure” After Happy Gilmore 2 Set Wrap
Jordan Collins: Okay, let me put this in terms you’ll actually understand.
MJF is still buzzing after wrapping his role as Adam Sandler’s on-screen son in the long-awaited sequel Happy Gilmore 2. In a recent chat with TMZ Sports, the AEW star couldn’t help but gush over his co-star’s mentorship, calling the SNL alum “really like a father to me at this point.”
The sequel to the 1996 cult classic brought the duo together in New York City this week, where MJF revealed just how much it meant to share the screen with someone he grew up idolizing. “I grew up absolutely looking up to him and idolizing him as a kid,” he told TMZ. MJF’s admiration goes beyond typical fanboy reverence: the former AEW world champion credits Sandler with putting him at ease on set and shaping his approach to comedy acting.
Sandler himself has been equally complimentary, praising MJF’s performance during press junkets and private screenings. According to an interview in Entertainment Weekly, Sandler noted that MJF brought “unexpected wit and energy” that elevated their father-son dynamic. Meanwhile, Variety reports that early footage has test audiences laughing at the duo’s banter and loving the chemistry.
This isn’t MJF’s first step outside the squared circle. After popping up in the acclaimed 2023 wrestling drama Iron Claw, the self-styled “Salt of the Earth” says he’s fully committed to a dual career in ring and reel. “I’m taking acting just as seriously as I do professional wrestling, and I’m very excited about it,” he explained.
Of course, wrestling fans were quick to ask about his AEW contract and that famous title shot clause waiting to be cashed in against Hangman Adam Page. MJF played coy, telling TMZ Sports, “I can’t answer that, but I know I can beat Hangman Adam Page in the middle of the ring, easy. I don’t need to cash this thing in.” He left the promise dangling like a cliffhanger in a prime time drama, and trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on that storyline.
Happy Gilmore 2 is shaping up to be a summer comedy blockbuster, blending nostalgic callbacks with fresh star power. With Sandler mentoring a rising wrestling star turned actor, audiences are set for plenty of laughs and maybe a few surprises. If MJF’s enthusiasm is any indicator, this sequel may surpass the original cult favorite in sheer entertainment value.
Well, now you finally understand!
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, Entertainment Weekly, Variety
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
