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April 04, 2025 – The iconic Naked Gun franchise, a cornerstone of slapstick comedy since its debut in the 1980s, is making a triumphant return to the silver screen. Paramount Pictures has officially unveiled the first teaser trailer for the highly anticipated Naked Gun remake, starring none other than action heavyweight Liam Neeson. Directed by comedy maestro Akiva Schaffer, this reboot promises to blend the absurdity of the original series with a modern twist, breathing new life into a beloved classic. As fans eagerly dissect the Naked Gun trailer, the film is already generating buzz for its unexpected casting, sharp humor, and nostalgic nods to its predecessors. Here’s everything you need to know about this cinematic revival, from its origins to its star-studded production.

A Legacy of Laughter: The Origins of The Naked Gun

Before diving into the details of the remake, it’s worth revisiting the roots of The Naked Gun. The franchise began as a short-lived television series, Police Squad!, which aired on ABC in 1982. Created by the legendary trio of Jim Abrahams and David and Jerry Zucker (collectively known as ZAZ). The show was a parody of police procedurals, featuring deadpan humor and visual gags aplenty. Leslie Nielsen starred as the bumbling yet earnest Lieutenant Frank Drebin, a character who would become synonymous with the franchise. Despite its critical acclaim, Police Squad! lasted only six episodes due to low ratings. As audiences at the time struggled to keep up with its rapid-fire comedy.

However, the ZAZ team wasn’t ready to let their creation fade into obscurity. In 1988, they transformed Police Squad! into a feature film, The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!. The movie was a smash hit, grossing over $140 million worldwide and earning rave reviews for its relentless humor. Nielsen’s portrayal of Drebin. A detective who stumbled through cases with a mix of cluelessness and accidental brilliance. Cemented his status as a comedy icon. Two sequels followed The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear in 1991 and Naked Gun 33⅓:. The Final Insult in 1994, both of which continued the franchise’s tradition of absurd parody and slapstick excellence.

For decades The Naked Gun has remained a touchstone of comedy. Influencing countless films and TV shows with its unique blend of satire and silliness. Yet, after the third installment, the franchise lay dormant, leaving fans yearning for more. That longing is finally being answered with the upcoming Naked Gun remake. Which promises to honor its legacy while carving out a fresh identity.

Liam Neeson Takes the Reins: A Surprising Yet Inspired Choice

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this reboot is its leading man: Liam Neeson. Known for his intense performances in action-packed thrillers like Taken and The Grey, Neeson might seem an unlikely successor to Leslie Nielsen’s comedic crown. However, this casting decision is proving to be a stroke of genius, blending Neeson’s gravitas with a subversive sense of humor that’s already evident in the Naked Gun trailer.

In this iteration, Neeson steps into the role of Frank Drebin Jr., the son of Nielsen’s original character. This narrative choice allows the film to pay homage to its roots while introducing a new dynamic. Rather than attempting to replicate Nielsen’s inimitable style, Neeson appears to lean into his own persona, poking fun at his action-hero image. The teaser trailer, released on April 3, 2025, showcases this approach brilliantly. In one standout scene, Neeson—disguised as a schoolgirl with a lollipop—foils a bank robbery with a mix of absurdity and bravado, delivering the line, “Frank Drebin, Police Squad… the new version,” with a knowing wink to the camera.

Neeson’s comedic chops aren’t entirely untested. He’s dabbled in humor before, notably in cameo roles on shows like Derry Girls and Extras, as well as collaborating with producer Seth MacFarlane on films like A Million Ways to Die in the West. Still, Liam Neeson Naked Gun marks his first full-fledged foray into slapstick comedy, and early reactions suggest he’s more than up to the task. You’re not going to see it coming. That’s how good he is.”

This unexpected casting has sparked widespread discussion among fans and critics alike. While some initially questioned whether Neeson could capture the spirit of The Naked Gun, the trailer has largely silenced doubters, proving that his deadpan delivery and physicality bring a fresh yet fitting energy to the franchise.

Akiva Schaffer: The Comedy Visionary Behind the Reboot

Directing this ambitious revival is Akiva Schaffer, a name synonymous with modern comedy. As a member of The Lonely Island trio alongside Andy Samberg and Jorma Taccone, Schaffer has spent years honing his craft, blending absurdity with sharp satire. His previous directorial efforts, including Hot Rod (2007), Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (2016), and the Emmy-winning Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022), showcase his ability to deliver laugh-out-loud moments while maintaining a cohesive narrative.

Schaffer’s involvement in the Naked Gun remake is a major coup for Paramount. Co-writing the script alongside Dan Gregor and Doug Mand—his collaborators on Rescue Rangers—Schaffer brings a contemporary sensibility to the project. His Lonely Island roots ensure a healthy dose of 21st-century absurdism, while his reverence for the ZAZ style keeps the film grounded in its slapstick heritage. In an interview with IndieWire, Schaffer hinted at the tone fans can expect: “We’re aiming for a high comedy that respects the originals but isn’t afraid to get weird.”

The Naked Gun trailer reflects this vision perfectly. From Neeson shivving robbers with a lollipop to a biting O.J. Simpson gag (referencing the original’s Nordberg, played by Simpson), the footage strikes a balance between nostalgia and innovation. Early screenings on the West Coast, as reported by World of Reel, have praised the film for being “perfectly in tone with the original,” with gags landing “every other minute.” Schaffer’s track record suggests he’s the ideal steward to guide The Naked Gun into a new era.

A Star-Studded Ensemble Elevates the Reboot

Beyond Neeson and Schaffer, the Naked Gun remake boasts an impressive ensemble cast that adds depth and humor to the proceedings. Pamela Anderson joins as Drebin Jr.’s love interest, a role originally played by Priscilla Presley in the classic trilogy. Anderson, who has experienced a career resurgence with projects like The Last Showgirl, brings her own comedic flair to the film. She’s described the experience as an “honor,” noting Neeson’s generosity on set and the “Saturday Night Live” crew’s improvisational energy.

Paul Walter Hauser, known for his work in I Think You Should Leave and Cruella, steps into the shoes of Captain Ed Hocken Jr., the son of George Kennedy’s character from the original films. Hauser’s knack for playing earnest yet quirky characters makes him a natural fit for the Police Squad’s second-in-command. Meanwhile, Kevin Durand (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes) takes on a villainous role, adding a layer of menace to the comedy. The cast is rounded out by a diverse array of talent, including Danny Huston, Liza Koshy, Cody Rhodes, CCH Pounder, and Busta Rhymes, each bringing their unique energy to the ensemble.

This mix of seasoned actors and rising stars underscores Paramount’s commitment to making the reboot a cinematic event. The trailer hints at dynamic interplay between the characters, with Hauser’s tearful tribute to his father and a sly nod to Simpson’s Nordberg suggesting a blend of heartfelt homage and irreverent humor.

The Road to the Remake: A Decade in the Making

The journey to bring The Naked Gun back to theaters has been a long and winding one. Rumors of a revival first surfaced in 2013, when Paramount announced plans for a reboot starring Ed Helms (The Office). That iteration, penned by Thomas Lennon and R. Ben Garant, aimed to take the franchise in a different direction but ultimately stalled in development. It wasn’t until Seth MacFarlane, a longtime fan of the series, entered the picture that the project gained momentum.

MacFarlane, alongside producing partner Erica Huggins via their Fuzzy Door banner, had expressed interest in casting Neeson as early as 2015. By 2022, the pieces began to fall into place. Paramount officially greenlit the film in October of that year, with Neeson confirmed as the lead and Schaffer tapped to direct. The script underwent several iterations, with Mark Hentemann and Alec Sulkin contributing an early draft before Schaffer, Gregor, and Mand took the helm. The result is a film that respects its predecessors while adapting to a modern audience.

The original ZAZ trio, however, is notably absent from this reboot. David Zucker, speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in 2024, revealed that he and his collaborators had written a script for a fourth Naked Gun film that Paramount passed on in favor of MacFarlane’s vision. While some fans may lament the lack of ZAZ involvement, Schaffer’s comedic pedigree offers reassurance that the franchise is in capable hands.

The Naked Gun Trailer: A Taste of What’s to Come

The unveiling of the Naked Gun trailer at CinemaCon on April 3, 2025, marked a pivotal moment for the reboot. The teaser, clocking in at just over a minute, packs a punch with its blend of action, absurdity, and self-awareness. It opens with a tense bank heist, where a little girl with a lollipop strolls through the chaos. A robber demands to know what she wants, only for her to rip off a mask, revealing Neeson in a schoolgirl outfit. What follows is a flurry of comedic violence—Neeson dispatches the criminals with his lollipop-turned-shiv, all while sporting strawberry-pink underwear.

The trailer also nods to the franchise’s past, with Drebin Jr. gazing mournfully at a photo of his father, followed by similar tributes from Hocken Jr. and a pointedly awkward pause at Nordberg’s portrait. This O.J. Simpson reference, given the actor’s controversial legacy and death in 2024, has sparked debate online, but it aligns with The Naked Gun’s tradition of edgy humor. Extended footage screened at CinemaCon, as reported by The Wrap, included additional gags—like Neeson beating a man with his own severed arms—further showcasing the film’s commitment to over-the-top comedy.

Reactions to the trailer have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media posts on X hailed it as “glorious” and “hilarious,” with many praising Neeson’s unexpected comedic turn and Schaffer’s spot-on tone. The teaser sets the stage for a film that’s both a love letter to the original and a bold step forward.

Why Now? The Timing of the Naked Gun Revival

The decision to resurrect The Naked Gun in 2025 raises an intriguing question: why now? Comedy has evolved significantly since the franchise’s heyday, with spoof films largely falling out of favor. Hits like Scary Movie and Epic Movie dominated the early 2000s but faded as audiences gravitated toward self-aware, improvisational humor. Yet, the success of recent legacy sequels—think Top Gun: Maverick and Ghostbusters: Afterlife—suggests there’s still an appetite for revisiting beloved properties with a modern twist.

Schaffer’s approach seems tailor-made for this moment. His work with The Lonely Island and Rescue Rangers demonstrates a knack for blending nostalgia with contemporary sensibilities, a formula that could resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers. Moreover, Neeson’s involvement adds a layer of subversion that feels timely—turning an action star into a comedic foil is a clever commentary on Hollywood tropes.

The film’s summer release date of August 1, 2025, positions it as a potential blockbuster, competing with titles like Ballerina and How to Train Your Dragon. Paramount’s confidence in the project is evident, and early buzz suggests it could be a sleeper hit in a crowded season.

What to Expect from the Naked Gun Remake

As production wraps and anticipation builds, details about the Naked Gun remake remain tantalizingly scarce. The plot is being kept under wraps, though it’s clear Drebin Jr. will lead the Police Squad on a mission to “save the world,” per the official synopsis. Expect a barrage of visual gags, one-liners, and absurd scenarios, all hallmarks of the franchise. Schaffer has teased “laugh-out-loud moments” that push boundaries, while Neeson has expressed excitement about exploring a lighter role.

The film’s tone will likely mirror the original’s parody of police procedurals, updated to riff on today’s action blockbusters—a nod to Neeson’s own filmography. With MacFarlane and Huggins producing, and Schaffer executive producing alongside Daniel M. Stillman, the creative team is stacked with talent dedicated to delivering a worthy successor.

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The Future of The Naked Gun Franchise

If the Liam Neeson Naked Gun proves successful, it could pave the way for further adventures. The franchise’s enduring popularity and the flexibility of its premise—a hapless detective solving crimes through sheer luck—offer endless possibilities. Whether that means more films with Neeson or a new spin-off remains to be seen, but the reboot’s reception will undoubtedly shape its trajectory.

For now, fans can look forward to August 1, 2025, when The Naked Gun storms theaters. With its stellar cast, visionary director, and a trailer that’s already winning hearts, this remake is poised to be one of the year’s most entertaining releases. As Drebin Jr. himself might say, “Nothing to see here… except a whole lot of laughs.”

FAQ: Your Questions About The Naked Gun Remake Answered

Q: Who is starring in the Naked Gun remake?
A: The Naked Gun remake stars Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr., alongside Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser, Kevin Durand, Danny Huston, Liza Koshy, Cody Rhodes, CCH Pounder, and Busta Rhymes.

Q: When does the Naked Gun reboot come out?
A: The film is slated for a theatrical release on August 1, 2025, distributed by Paramount Pictures.

Q: Who is directing the Naked Gun remake?
A: Akiva Schaffer, a member of The Lonely Island and director of Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping, is helming the project.

Q: Is the Naked Gun trailer available to watch?
A: Yes, the first teaser trailer was released on April 3, 2025, and is available on YouTube and Paramount’s official channels.

Q: How does Liam Neeson’s role differ from Leslie Nielsen’s?
A: Neeson plays Frank Drebin Jr., the son of Nielsen’s original character, bringing a new perspective while paying tribute to the classic role.

Q: Will the original creators be involved?
A: No, Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker are not part of this reboot. Seth MacFarlane and Akiva Schaffer lead the creative team instead.

Learn more about Liam Neeson’s career at Biography.com.

Explore Akiva Schaffer’s filmography on IMDb.

Watch the official Naked Gun trailer on YouTube.

Read reviews and updates at Variety.

Dive into the franchise’s history at The Hollywood Reporter.