Adam Sandler returned to Central New York on Wednesday night, playing to a packed crowd at the Upstate Medical University Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial in Syracuse as part of his “You’re My Best Friend” tour.
The comedian and actor has long been linked to Syracuse, thanks to his role in the 1999 film “Big Daddy,” where he played a Syracuse University alumnus. That connection was not ignored by Sandler, and he made sure to acknowledge the city throughout the evening.
On stage, he told the audience he loves Syracuse and shared that he and his crew planned to head to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que after the show. Earlier in the day, he visited the Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center, where he played pickup with members of the SU men’s and women’s basketball teams. Dressed in his classic oversized style — bright red track pants and a baggy pullover — Sandler looked every bit like the relaxed, down-to-earth version of himself that fans have come to expect.
The audience at the War Memorial skewed older with many longtime fans who grew up watching Sandler’s movies and “Saturday Night Live” sketches. Sandler leaned into that, keeping the crowd involved throughout the night. At one point, he invited audience members to stand up so he could sing playful, “totally untrue” songs about them, turning strangers into part of the show. Sandler repeatedly thanked the Syracuse crowd, calling them “so nice” and expressing his gratitude for the reception…