Picture this: You’re getting fitted for a costume on one of the biggest sci-fi franchises in history when your phone rings with news that completely flips your world upside down. That’s exactly what happened to WWE superstar Becky Lynch when she discovered she’d landed a coveted role in Netflix’s highly anticipated Happy Gilmore 2. The timing couldn’t have been more Hollywood if it was scripted.
The Phone Call That Changed Everything
Lynch’s journey from audition tape to confirmed cast member moved at breakneck speed, proving that opportunities in Tinseltown can materialize faster than a surprise RKO. Speaking with Sports Illustrated’s Rick Ucchino, “The Man” revealed how quickly her acting dreams became reality after throwing her hat in the ring for Adam Sandler’s long-awaited golf comedy sequel.
“A week [after the audition], I was in a costume fitting for Star Trek. I got a call that I had gotten the part.”
The irony wasn’t lost on Lynch—while preparing for one major Hollywood production, another came calling with an offer she couldn’t refuse. It’s the kind of career momentum that would make any performer’s head spin, especially someone who started their journey in wrestling rings rather than acting studios.
From Irish Video Shops to Netflix Stardom
The emotional weight of Lynch’s casting goes deeper than just another acting gig. Growing up in Ireland, she experienced the original Happy Gilmore the way most ’90s kids did—through family movie nights and countless VHS rewatches. What started as childhood entertainment has now become her professional reality in the most unexpected way.
“I remember going to the video shop in Ireland and renting the first one and watching it with my brother and Dad. Nearly 30 years later I was on set for the second. That’s pretty surreal.”
This full-circle moment represents more than career achievement—it’s a testament to how far Lynch has traveled from her Dublin roots to become a global entertainment figure. The kid who once stood in Irish video stores browsing comedy classics is now sharing scenes with the stars who shaped her sense of humor.
Working With a Comedy Legend: Lynch’s Sandler Experience
Meeting your childhood heroes can be a risky proposition—sometimes the reality doesn’t match the pedestal you’ve built in your mind. For Lynch, working alongside Adam Sandler exceeded every expectation she had built over decades of fandom. The experience transformed admiration into genuine professional respect.
“Loved Adam Sandler growing up. Still do. Actually, working with him made me love him even more. Watching how passionate, hilarious and dialed in he is at all times, and witnessing how he creates such a fun and warm working environment, he keeps everything loose but laser focused at the same time. It’s really quite incredible.”
Lynch’s observations reveal the professional side of Sandler that audiences rarely see. Behind the goofy characters and silly voices lies a meticulous performer who understands how to balance creative freedom with focused execution—skills that translate perfectly from wrestling’s live performance demands.
Wrestling Takes Over Hollywood: The AEW Connection
Lynch won’t be the only squared circle veteran bringing their talents to Happy Gilmore 2. AEW’s Maxwell Jacob Friedman, better known as MJF, has also secured a significant role in the production, portraying one of Happy Gilmore’s sons. This casting choice creates an interesting dynamic that bridges the often-competitive divide between WWE and AEW talent.
The inclusion of wrestlers from both major promotions suggests that Hollywood is recognizing the crossover appeal and acting potential within professional wrestling’s current roster. It’s a trend that benefits the entire industry by showcasing the diverse talents these performers possess beyond their in-ring abilities.
The Fast Lane to Acting Success
Lynch’s rapid ascension in Hollywood demonstrates how quickly entertainment careers can shift when the right opportunities align with prepared talent. Her transition from wrestling superstar to legitimate acting prospect hasn’t happened overnight, but the momentum is undeniable. Each new project builds credibility and opens doors to even bigger possibilities.
The Star Trek and Happy Gilmore 2 bookings represent different sides of Lynch’s acting range—serious science fiction drama versus comedy gold. This versatility positions her for sustained success rather than being typecast in a single genre or character type.
As Becky Lynch continues building her Hollywood resume while maintaining her wrestling career, fans are witnessing a rare dual-track success story that could redefine what’s possible for sports entertainment stars. Will her acting achievements eventually overshadow her wrestling legacy, or can she master both worlds simultaneously? The answer might determine the blueprint for the next generation of crossover superstars.
