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Comedy fans can mark their calendars for August 1, 2025, as the slapstick tradition of ‘The Naked Gun’ returns to theaters with a new face at the center: Liam Neeson as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. Directed by Akiva Schaffer, this highly anticipated film combines legacy, nostalgia, and a bold new comedic direction for the classic franchise.
A New Drebin Steps Up
In the original films, the late Leslie Nielsen defined the role of Frank Drebin with his impeccable deadpan delivery. Now, the mantle passes to his on-screen son, Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., portrayed by Liam Neeson. While best known for his roles in action and drama, Neeson brings a fresh dynamic to comedy—an opportunity he acknowledges comes with both excitement and nerves. In a recent interview, Neeson admitted, “I’m slightly nervous of it… But a whole film, we’ll see. We’ll see.” This marks Neeson’s first leading role in a comedy, following memorable cameos in "Ted 2" and appearances on "Derry Girls" and "Life’s Too Short"—highlighting his versatility and willingness to explore new territory.
Stellar Ensemble Cast
Alongside Neeson, the film stars Pamela Anderson as Beth, Paul Walter Hauser as Capt. Ed Hocken Jr., CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddy Yu, and Danny Huston. The supporting cast is rounded out by notable names like Busta Rhymes and Michael Bisping, suggesting a comedic ensemble ready for physical gags and witty back-and-forths reminiscent of the original trilogy.
Directed by Comedy Veteran
Akiva Schaffer, well known for his work on "Saturday Night Live" and musical comedy group The Lonely Island, helms the project. The screenplay is a collaboration between Schaffer, Dan Gregor, and Doug Mand, with Schaffer promising a continuation rather than a direct reboot. This creative team aims to honor the legacy of the original "Police Squad!" series and its film adaptations, ensuring fans of classic comedy will find plenty to relish.
What to Expect in the New ‘The Naked Gun’
‘The Naked Gun’ (2025) is positioned as a legacy sequel, serving as the fourth entry in the beloved franchise – a direct follow-up rather than a reimagining. With the Police Squad’s files being hilariously "reopened," fans can expect the signature parody style of the original movies, including absurd gags, wordplay, and tongue-in-cheek action. The trailer teases a perfect blend of crime caper chaos and irreverent comedy that audiences expect from "The Naked Gun" legacy.
The film is produced by comedy heavyweight Seth MacFarlane, known for "Family Guy" and "Ted," along with Erica Huggins of Fuzzy Door Productions. This collaboration ensures a comedic pedigree behind the camera to match the talent on screen.
Trailer and Sneak Peek
Paramount Pictures released the official teaser trailer, showcasing Neeson’s comedic chops and hinting at the wild and unpredictable humor the franchise is famous for. The preview has already sparked significant buzz on social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), with fans sharing their excitement and curiosity about Neeson’s comedic transformation. See the official teaser trailer on YouTube for a taste of what’s to come.
Release Details and Where to Learn More
‘The Naked Gun’ will land in U.S. theaters on August 1, 2025, distributed by Paramount Pictures in association with Domain Entertainment and Fuzzy Door Productions. For updates, character posters, and more exclusives, fans can visit the film’s official website. Paramount has also shared the trailer via their official YouTube channel.
With a high-profile cast, acclaimed comedy creators, and the balance of nostalgia and reinvention, the new "The Naked Gun" is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated comedy releases of 2025. Followers can join ongoing discussions and share their reactions on social media using hashtags like #NakedGun and #FrankDrebinJr.
Stay tuned for more updates as the summer 2025 release approaches—this reboot is sure to bring fresh laughs while honoring the legacy of one of cinema’s most beloved spoofs. For a deeper dive into the original "Police Squad!" series and its impact on pop culture, the Wikipedia page on the Naked Gun franchise offers great background and context.