When students arrive at college, the uncertainty of who their roommate will be looms large.
You could end up with a party-loving disruptor or a complete introvert, but for Tim Herlihy, it was a young Adam Sandler with whom he would forge a legendary partnership.
Their story began not in Hollywood but in the dorms of New York University in 1984, where both were freshmen.
From the onset, Herlihy noticed something special about Sandler; he exuded confidence and charisma.
Meanwhile, Sandler was equally impressed by Herlihy’s ambition, recalling how Herlihy boldly proclaimed his desire to be a billionaire.
As they bonded over a shared love for films and popular culture, including classics like “Caddyshack,” their camaraderie grew.
It was a mutual exchange of inspiration: when Sandler expressed his aspirations to perform stand-up comedy, Herlihy dedicated a weekend to crafting material for his friend’s act.
Their collaboration would soon explode, paving the way for an extraordinary career in comedy.
Herlihy went on to attend and graduate from NYU’s law school while simultaneously supporting Sandler with material for his stand-up and sketch characters, like the unforgettable Canteen Boy on “Saturday Night Live.”
Together, they wrote the screenplay for “Billy Madison,” which marked the beginning of a prolific partnership.
This initial hit laid the groundwork for their next project, “Happy Gilmore,” a film released just a year later that showcased the comedic duo’s unique vision.
While creating a sequel to “Happy Gilmore” was a daunting task, Herlihy and Sandler eventually embraced the challenge in what Herlihy described as a moment of weakness.
In a whimsical analogy, he compared the decision to having a pet—initially resistant, but eventually warming to the idea and taking the plunge.
With the release of “Happy Gilmore 2,” audiences find a matured Gilmore navigating family responsibilities and contemplating his legacy.
The sequel, which premiered on Netflix, features a star-studded cast, including Bad Bunny, Travis Kelce, and Benny Safdie, and seeks to explore themes of growth and family dynamics in the world of comedy.
Herlihy acknowledges that creating a sequel was not an easy endeavor.
Despite the years of experience and successful films behind them, the pair faced the familiar struggle of finding fresh storylines and humor that would resonate with audiences.
He reflected on the daunting pressure of following up a beloved original.
“Your first movie, you put your whole heart and soul into it, and every joke you ever thought of,” Herlihy explained, describing the daunting task of crafting a second.
“Then when you have to do another one, you’re like, what are we going to do?”
Even with the shared history and friendship, revisiting Gilmore’s character required those long hours spent strategizing in Sandler’s production company lobby.
They combed through countless ideas and plot points, seeking to motivate the now-adult Gilmore’s return to golf.
Julie Bowen, who reprised her role as Virginia, expressed admiration for the duo’s collaborative environment on set.
She recalled Herlihy’s easygoing demeanor during the original film and noted how he and Sandler worked in sync to refine their comedic vision for the sequel.
Director Kyle Newacheck echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the creativity and camaraderie shared between Herlihy and Sandler.
He remarked on the undeniable chemistry and understanding that allowed them to evolve their humor collaboratively, ensuring that each scene captured their signature comedic style.
For Sandler, the secret to their lasting partnership lies in the fact that Herlihy is not just a collaborator but a deeply valued friend.
He emphasized Herlihy’s unique comedic talent and the joy that comes from their conversations, stating, “He’s just a good, good man, funnier than everybody. I love him so much.”
Contrasting their working styles, Herlihy noted that he’s more inclined towards quiet moments, while Sandler thrives on continuous creative endeavors and collaborations.
Herlihy described Sandler’s work ethic, saying, “The more he’s doing on a movie, the more he’s happy. I just like time off.”
Herlihy takes pride in his family’s connections to the comedy scene, especially through his son Martin, who has linked back to their early roots at “SNL” and shares stories with his father.
This familial bond fosters a sense of continuity and growth within their comedic journey.
In adding fresh talent like Bad Bunny into “Happy Gilmore 2,” Herlihy acknowledged the need to adapt and appreciate the capabilities of new performers, keeping the spirit of collaboration alive.
While Herlihy might question how future audiences will remember his work alongside Sandler, he prefers to focus on enjoying life and the moments spent with family and friends.
He philosophically stated that one cannot control how they will be remembered, emphasizing the importance of laughter and connection over legacy.
Despite the comedic milestones they have achieved, Herlihy remains grounded and reflective—considering the unpredictable nature of public perception and reputation.
His wit shines through as he humorously muses about the arbitrary nature of remembrance in the film industry.
“You have no control over your obituary. Just enjoy your family and have some laughs,” he concluded, urging a light-hearted approach to life and creativity.
In an industry where collaborations can sometimes be fleeting, the enduring partnership between Tim Herlihy and Adam Sandler continues to thrive, enriched by their shared history and unwavering friendship.
image source from：latimes
