Paige Spiranac Drops 'Fake Casting' Story Behind 'Happy Gilmore 2' Role
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Just days after its release, "Happy Gilmore 2" has shattered Netflix records, with 46.7 million views in three days, claiming the biggest U.S. opening weekend for a Netflix film.
The golf sequel, brought back to screens after nearly 30 years, casts an All-Star lineup from the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, LPGA and more. But one cameo that stood out for its unexpected backstory was golf influencer Paige Spiranac.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 21: Paige Spiranac attends Netflix's "Happy Gilmore 2" New York Premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center on July 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by)...
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 21: Paige Spiranac attends Netflix's "Happy Gilmore 2" New York Premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center on July 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by) More
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The former LPGA pro recently revealed that her appearance in the film wasn't the result of a formal audition but a "fake casting" situation.
"There was a fake casting that came out a while ago, and I kind of threw my name into the ring," Spiranac revealed during her recent interview at SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio.
"I said, 'Hey, I'm ready for (the role).' I put up a picture of me which was like recreating the 'Happy Place' with the iconic image of her (Virginia Venit, played by Julie Bowen in the original Happy Gilmore) in the white with the beer, and it gained a lot of attraction."
"I think that's kind of how it all came together, but it was such a cool experience," she added, as posted by @siriusxmpgatour on Instagram.
Who did it better, Virginia Venit or @PaigeSpiranac ? pic.twitter.com/m7frB7nojh — Tour Golf (@PGATUOR) August 26, 2022
In "Happy Gilmore 2," Spiranac plays a Dick's Sporting Goods simulator attendant, assisting Happy Gilmore (played by Adam Sandler) as he attempts to rediscover his swing. Her cameo comes early in the film, where she watches in awe as Sandler's character blasts a ball through the simulator screen, leaving the crowd and Spiranac stunned.
Reflecting on her time on set, she had nothing but praise for Sandler.
"Adam Sandler is the most down-to-earth, humble, most genuine person I've ever met," Spiranac told SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio.
The 32-year-old influencer also turned heads at the film's premiere at Lincoln Center in New York, where she walked the green carpet in a sheer red dress.
Along with Spiranac, it was Scottie Scheffler who also stole the spotlight, arriving with the Claret Jug just one day after winning The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Later, Scheffler was also spotted at "The Tonight Show," surprising Jimmy Fallon and fans.
More Golf: Charley Hull, Once Dubbed 'Female Tiger Woods,' Seeks Major Breakthrough
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