Adam Sandler has traded his signature casual wear for tailored suits during the press tour for his new film, Jay Kelly. The reason for this style change is his co-star, George Clooney. Sandler revealed at the AFI Fest premiere on October 23, 2025, that Clooney’s disappointed expression at his usual oversized t-shirts and shorts prompted the wardrobe update. Sandler told Entertainment Tonight,
I’m doing this [wearing suits] for his sake, cause I like Clooney. He’s a very nice man. And when I show up looking like the way I like to be, he looks so hurt by it that I said, ‘Alright, let me throw a suit on.’
The wardrobe shift marks a notable departure for an actor famous for prioritizing comfort over style. Sandler’s fashion transformation has dominated headlines throughout the promotional campaign.
George Clooney and Adam Sandler’s Three Decades of Friendship
Clooney and Sandler’s friendship began in the 1990s after they met at a New York Knicks game with Lorne Michaels. For 30 years, they maintained their connection, often playing basketball together. Their bond became stronger while filming Jay Kelly, where Clooney stars as the title character and Sandler plays his manager, Ron Sukenick.
Clooney was notably protective of Sandler during the production. He set rules on set, asking the cast and crew not to use Sandler’s nickname, Sandman, to preserve the serious tone of his dramatic performance. Clooney wanted to ensure that audiences would recognize Sandler’s capabilities as a dramatic actor, separate from his well-known comedic persona. Clooney told The Hollywood Reporter,
You get treated the way you treat yourself. This was a different kind of role for Adam, and I wanted to make sure that he wasn’t making fun of his incredible talent. He likes to just deflect and I was like, ‘You know what, dude, you’re really good in this film and you’re a really good actor and let’s not just make jokes.’
Sandler acknowledged Clooney’s support, noting that Clooney frequently highlighted his acting skills. The two found common ground in their similar upbringings, where friendship was highly valued. Off-set, they spent time exercising, running, and sharing stories about their childhoods. Clooney described their collaboration as a love story between two friends. At the New York premiere on September 29, 2025, he told People,
I love him. He’s the sweetest man in the world. He’s a dear friend and the fact that I got to work with him again is [great].
Sandler reciprocated the affection, expressing his love for Clooney through the film and working to enhance his life both on and off screen.
Jay Kelly: Plot, Cast, and Release Date and Everything You Need to Know
The film Jay Kelly centers on a famous movie star, played by Clooney, whose career is in decline. After a physical altercation leaves him with a black eye, he rejects a potentially career-saving role. Instead, Jay flies to France to see his daughter, bringing his manager Ron Sukenick (Sandler) along under the guise of work obligations.
The European trip becomes a journey of self-reflection for Jay, forcing him to confront his shortcomings as a father and friend. Ron concurrently deals with his own family problems, but Jay is often unwilling to listen. Ron eventually recognizes their professional relationship has become imbalanced, prompting him to leave Jay’s employment after a final tribute ceremony.
Noah Baumbach directed the film and co-wrote the screenplay with Emily Mortimer. The cast includes Laura Dern, Riley Keough, Billy Crudup, Greta Gerwig, and Patrick Wilson. The film debuted at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 28, 2025, earning a Golden Lion nomination and critical praise (via Variety). Jay Kelly will release in select theaters on November 14, 2025, and will be available on Netflix on December 5, 2025.
The film examines how individuals choose to live their lives and the impact of fame on personal relationships. Both Clooney and Sandler have received acclaim for their performances, with significant Oscar buzz for Sandler.
A nomination would be Sandler’s first, following a notable snub for his role in Uncut Gems. Netflix is also campaigning for Golden Globes consideration, with Clooney for Best Actor and Sandler for supporting actor (via Variety).
What do you think of Clooney and Sandler’s friendship? Share your thoughts below!
Jay Kelly releases in selected theaters on November 14 and on Netflix on December 5.
