Dennis Dugan

Professional Trajectory

Dennis Dugan (born September 5, 1946) is an American director, comedian, and actor. He started his acting career after appearing in the 1973 made-for-TV movie” The Girl Most Likely to...” He is well known for his frequent collaborations with comedic actor Adam Sandler, directing several films including “Happy Gilmore” and “Grown Ups.” Dennis has also made a career as a television and film director, and appears in cameo parts in many of his films. Dugan has directed episodes of such television series as Moonlighting (was also a guest star in some episodes), Ally McBeal, and NYPD Blue.  Dugan married actress Joyce Van Patten in 1973 and divorced her fourteen years later. Now he is married to Sharon O'Connor and has a son named Kelly Dugan.