Adam Sandler Joins Hollywood In Mourning Late ‘Happy Gilmore’ Star Joe Flaherty: “Couldn’t Be More Fun To Have Him Heckle Me On The Golf Course”

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The tributes are pouring in for Joe Flaherty following news of his death. Stars like Adam Sandler and Judd Apatow are among those mourning the actor, who was best known for his roles in Happy Gilmore and Freaks and Geeks.

According to TV Insider, Flaherty’s One Crazy Summer co-star Joel Murray announced the news of his death when he posted, “We’ve lost another of my idols. RIP Joe Flaherty 1941-2024.” The star’s daughter later confirmed his death to the Canadian press, revealing that he passed away following a battle with an undisclosed illness, per The Hollywood Reporter. He was 82.

Sandler, who starred alongside Flaherty in the 1996 sports comedy Happy Gilmore, was among the first to pay tribute to the actor. Flaherty played Donald the “Jeering Fan” in the film.

“Oh man. Worshipped Joe growing up. Always had me and my brother laughing,” he wrote on X. “Count Floyd, Guy Caballero. Any move he made. He crushed as border guard in Stripes. Couldn’t be more fun to have him heckle me on the golf course. The nicest guy you could know. Genius of a comedian. And a true sweetheart. Perfect combo. Much love to his kids and thanks to Joe for all the greatness he gave us all.”

Flaherty also played Harold Weir — the father to Linda Cardellini‘s Lindsay Weir and John Francis Daley‘s Sam Weir — in the teen dramedy Freaks and Geeks. The show was created by Paul Feig and executive produced by Apatow — both of whom penned messages to Flaherty in light of his passing.

“When Joe Flaherty was on the set it felt magical. We were always so excited,” Apatow wrote on Instagram. “We couldn’t believe he was a part of Freaks and Geeks. We loved him so much and told him all the time. He made everything he was in so much better. Joe was the kindest man, a brilliant actor and a GOAT in the world of comedy. Every moment with him was a treasure.”

Feig added, “So sad to hear about dear Joe. He was my TV dad and a true comedy hero. Always happy to tell any story about your favorite SCTV sketch, he was just the greatest guy. I will truly miss him and always be grateful to have known him. Rest in comedy, Joe.”

Read more of the tributes below: