Adam Sandler Honors Morris, the Alligator from 'Happy Gilmore,' After His Passing

Adam Sandler Honors Morris, the Alligator from 'Happy Gilmore'

In a tribute steeped in humor and nostalgia, Adam Sandler has reflected on the life of Morris, the alligator from his iconic film 'Happy Gilmore,' who passed away at an estimated age of 80. Morris, who played a memorable role in the 1996 comedy, became infamous for his encounter with Sandler’s character, Happy, during a pivotal scene.

“Goodbye, Morris. We are all gonna miss you,” Sandler tweeted following the news of Morris’ passing on May 12. In his tribute, Sandler painted Morris as a unique character who could be demanding on set, not only with directors but also make-up artists and costumers, humorously noting, “You could be hard on directors, make-up artists, costumers — really anyone with arms or legs.” Sandler acknowledged that those quirks were all part of Morris’ commitment to the ultimate good of the film.

Sandler reminisced on the lessons he learned from Morris, including a pivotal moment when Morris refused to leave his trailer without being provided 40 heads of lettuce. “That day taught me a powerful lesson: Never compromise your art,” Sandler said. He reflected on a shared moment at craft services, where they divided a candy bar, reminiscing, “I will never forget at craft service that time when we split the Three Musketeers bar and you let me have the bigger half. But that’s who you were.”

Although Morris was not set to appear in the upcoming sequel, 'Happy Gilmore 2,' which is scheduled for release on Netflix July 25, Sandler noted Morris' presence was deeply missed on set. He humorously acknowledged the character’s demise in the original film, stating, “I know your character’s decapitation in the first movie precluded your participation in the sequel, but we all appreciated the fruit basket and the hilarious note.”

In a more reflective tone, Sandler expressed his sorrow over the loss, stating, “I will miss the sound of your tail sliding through the tall grass, your cold, bumpy skin, but, most of all, I will miss your infectious laugh. Thanks to Mr. Young for taking care of you all these years, and vaya con dios, old friend.”

Morris achieved significant fame in Hollywood, earning a spot in the New York Times obituary. Weighing in at 640 pounds and measuring 11 feet, Morris had a career in film spanning from 1975 to 2006, featuring in notable films such as 'Alligator,' 'Dr. Doolittle 2,' 'Interview With the Vampire,' and 'Blues Brothers 2000.' His initial discovery occurred in a private residential backyard in Los Angeles, where he had been kept as an illegal pet.

Upon retirement, Morris resided at the Colorado Gator Farm in Mosca, CO. The alligator passed away due to old age. A representative from the farm stated, “His exact age was unknown, but he was nine feet long in 1975, and by his growth rate and tooth loss, we can estimate his age at over 80 years.” In a fitting tribute, the farm announced plans to have Morris taxidermied, commenting, “We have decided to get Morris taxidermied so that he can continue to scare children for years to come. It’s what he would have wanted.”

To honor Morris, Sandler concluded his tribute with a heartfelt farewell: “Goodbye, Morris. We are all gonna miss you.”