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

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.

"It was a lot of special effects. More than I've ever done before in my life."

Bowen, 55, has looked back on her upbringing with a real estate developer father who taught her a "golden rule" about success.

Happy Gilmore 2' is streaming live on Netflix today, July 25, and the anticipation for the sequel has been at a fever pitch, ever since the Adam Sandler project was announced.

The Happy Gilmore 2 actress shares three sons with her ex-husband, Scott Phillips, whom she married in 2004 and divorced in 2018. They welcomed their first son, Oliver, in 2007, followed by their twins, John and Gustav, two years later in 2009.

Julie Bowen was surprised when Netflix asked her to return for “Happy Gilmore 2.” During a recent interview on the “Inside of You” podcast, Bowen explained she was certain she’d be replaced as the love interest for Adam Sandler’s titular golfer by a younger actress for the highly anticipated “Happy Gilmore” sequel.

The ‘Modern Family’ actress recalls recoiling from chaos, coping with anxiety and why pickleball is her exercise of choice.

The stars open up about reuniting with Sandler for "Happy Gilmore 2” and how the sport continues to embrace the original film.