Maxwell Jacob Friedman, widely known as MJF in All Elite Wrestling, recently shared his experiences while filming “Happy Gilmore 2,” where he plays one of Happy Gilmore’s sons. The conversation took a humorous turn as MJF jokingly critiqued the curtains in the interviewer’s home, humor that has become his trademark both in and out of the ring.
MJF, at 29, has solidified his reputation as one of wrestling’s best heels, adept at delivering sharp insults and engaging with fans. Despite his persona, he spoke positively about his time on set with Adam Sandler and director Kyle Newacheck, expressing gratitude for the opportunity. His character development involved a blend of being Happy’s son while infusing personal traits to keep it authentic.
Reflecting on his costumes, which deviated from his typical wrestling attire, MJF humorously noted that they included hand-me-downs and shirts from the original movie. This nod to the past showcases the film’s connection to its predecessor and shows MJF’s commitment to his role.
When talking about the crossover from wrestling to acting, MJF highlighted changes in Hollywood’s perceptions of wrestlers, crediting stars like Dave Bautista, John Cena, and Dwayne Johnson for helping to break the mold. He believes that industry understanding of wrestlers’ dedication and talent has improved significantly, allowing him to embrace opportunities in acting while still committing to his wrestling career.
In discussing “Happy Gilmore 2,” he confirmed that he auditioned for another role before being cast as Happy’s son, demonstrating that persistence in auditions can lead to unexpected opportunities. MJF also pointed out how his experiences on film sets differ from wrestling, noting the creative freedom to innovate on each take compared to the live nature of wrestling performances.
MJF’s admiration for Adam Sandler extended beyond the screen, revealing common interests such as sports and wrestling. He expressed enthusiasm about the potential for new viewers to explore AEW after seeing him in a prominent film, which could bridge fans of both wrestling and comedy.
As he continues to navigate both wrestling and acting, MJF remains committed to excelling in both industries, embodying a work ethic that aims to prove his multifaceted talent. “Happy Gilmore 2” is now streaming on Netflix, offering fans a chance to see MJF in a different light, while AEW continues to thrive on TBS, displaying the evolving landscape of entertainment.