Julie Bowen and director Kyle Newacheck discuss the controversial decision to kill off Virginia Venit in Happy Gilmore 2, explaining why it was crucial for Happy's story arc.

This story discusses major plot developments in “Happy Gilmore 2,” currently streaming on Netflix. “Happy Gilmore” fans got quite the shock when Adam Sandler’s long-awaited sequel finally hit Netflix over the weekend.

Richard Kiel, an iconic Bond villain who portrayed a giant Happy Gilmore fan who intimidates rival Shooter McGavin in the first film, is honored by having his character's son appear in the sequel. Kiel died at 74 in 2014.

Meanwhile, Sandler and Bowen reacted to Bowen’s shocking “Happy Gilmore 2” death during an interview with Entertainment Weekly published shortly after the movie’s release. The “Modern Family” star suggested that her character needed to die to drive Happy and the events of the film.

After dropping Vienna off at the airport, Happy looks up at the sky and sees Virginia (as well as Bob Barker) once again. “You’re okay,” she says, and he mouths a kiss to his dead wife. Happy’s finally ready to move forward with his life, golf clubs and all.

Anticipation for the long-awaited comedy is high, and the original Happy Gilmore has been trending on Netflix ahead of its release. Julie Bowen returning as Virginia proved to fans that the spirit of the first movie would continue, and I can tell you there are countless references and easter eggs to the first one.

Director Kyle Newacheck has shared his initial reaction to the surprising plot development at the start of Happy Gilmore 2, which premiered on Netflix on July 25. Speaking to PEOPLE, Newacheck revealed he was unaware of the major storyline involving Julie Bowen’s character, Virginia Venit, until reading the completed screenplay.

Yes, Julie Bowen's character dies early in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. She is hit by a golf ball on Mother's Day, from a shot hit by Happy, and dies.

The Emmy winner spoke with PEOPLE exclusively about reprising her role as Virginia Venit in the 'Happy Gilmore' sequel, nearly 30 years after the original

Happy Gilmore and Virginia Venit may have ended up together in the movies, but here’s who the actors are dating in real life

Happy Gilmore 2 is officially on Netflix — and it’s jam-packed with celebrity cameos. The much-anticipated sequel, which was released July 25, follows hot-tempered golfer Happy Gilmore’s (portrayed by Adam Sandler) return to the sport.