Ahead of his much-anticipated role in Happy Gilmore 2, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce has received high praise from veteran actor Christopher McDonald, who reprises his iconic 1996 role as Shooter McGavin in the upcoming sequel, according to People magazine. “Travis Kelce has really made an impression,” McDonald said. “He’s a genuinely likeable guy and very funny. Also, far too handsome—but honestly, a really good actor,” he added, calling Kelce’s performance “surprisingly good."

While careful not to give away too many details before the Adam Sandler-led sequel arrives on Netflix on July 25, McDonald did comment on Kelce’s golf abilities. “I think he’s got game,” McDonald said, noting that although they didn’t get a chance to play golf together during filming, he’s confident in Kelce’s athleticism. “He’s a beast. I’m sure he crushes the ball.”

News of Kelce’s involvement was first revealed by Sandler during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in August 2024, and Kelce later described the experience of working with Sandler as “a dream come true” in a January 2025 episode of ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, People reported. McDonald also teased fans about what to expect from the sequel, mentioning a major “plot twist” involving his character and a number of exciting surprise cameos alongside returning cast members from the 1996 original. “Everyone who’s still around, I’ve been in contact with,” he said, referencing actors like Kevin Nealon, whom he called “one of the funniest guys” he’s ever met.

“There are so many wonderful little cameos throughout the movie,” McDonald added. “We have this lineup of cameos I can’t talk about… I signed an NDA. But let’s just say some of the top 3–5% of great golfers make an appearance. It was a dream come true to be around so many legends.” On returning to his villainous role, McDonald confirmed, “Shooter is back—and he’s out for revenge.” “Putting on those Shooter McGavin shoes again and stepping back onto the course brought me so much joy,” he said. “I’ve been championing a sequel for years. It’s an honour to return to the role, and finally, we made it happen—it’s going to be great.” Happy Gilmore 2 premieres on Netflix on July 25.