At the 78th DGA Awards, I had the chance to speak with Kyle Newacheck about directing Happy Gilmore 2 — a project that meant far more to him than just another credit.
For Newacheck, the sequel was personal.
“I was 12 years old when the first one came out,” he shared. “That movie kind of told me maybe comedies could be made with groups of friends.”
Nearly 30 years later, he found himself directing the next chapter.
Talk about full circle.
Honoring a Comedy Classic
Stepping into such a beloved franchise comes with pressure — especially as a fan.
Newacheck admitted he felt “on edge” during production, wanting to honor what made the original so special while still delivering something fresh.
And yes — some hilarious moments had to be left on the cutting room floor.
“There is some funny stuff that hit the floor for sure,” he said with a laugh.
But at its core, the experience was an honor.
“To be asked to make the movie was just a privilege,” he added.
A Surreal Recognition
Being honored at the DGA Awards for directing Happy Gilmore 2 still hasn’t fully sunk in for him.
“It’s surreal,” he said. “I still don’t really believe it.”
Standing on that red carpet, he joked that it felt like he might just be at another premiere — not an awards show.
But the moment was real.
Watch the surreal moment with Kyle Newacheck in our interview above.
