Naked Gun Creator David Zucker Slams Liam Neeson Reboot as 'Moronic'
David Zucker, the co-creator of the iconic The Naked Gun franchise, has launched a scathing critique of Paramount Pictures and producer Seth MacFarlane for their recent reboot of the film series. Zucker did not mince words, labelling the decision to cast Liam Neeson in the lead role as "moronic" and accusing the studio of "ruining" the beloved franchise.
Zucker's Criticism of the Reboot
In a candid interview, Zucker expressed his dismay at the 2025 reboot, which replaced the late original star Leslie Nielsen with action hero Liam Neeson. Despite admitting he has not actually seen the new film, Zucker stands by his harsh assessment, arguing that the casting choice fundamentally misunderstands the spirit of the series. He believes the studio's approach prioritises big names over creative integrity, opting for what he calls the "wrong thing" in a risk-averse Hollywood climate.
Overlooked Script and Alternative Projects
Zucker revealed that Paramount had previously overlooked his own proposed script for a fourth Naked Gun film. His vision featured a young actor in a James Bond-style setting, aiming to revive the franchise with fresh energy while honouring its comedic roots. Feeling sidelined, Zucker has since repurposed this unmade script into a new project titled Counter Intelijence. He is currently diversifying his creative efforts, working on a film noir spoof and an online comedy class, showcasing his ongoing commitment to satire and humour.
Broader Industry Critique
Beyond the specific reboot, Zucker's comments reflect a broader frustration with Hollywood's tendency to favour established stars like Seth MacFarlane and Liam Neeson over original concepts. He argues that this risk-averse strategy stifles innovation and can lead to disappointing outcomes for fans. His critique underscores a growing debate in the entertainment industry about balancing commercial appeal with artistic vision, especially when reviving classic franchises.
As the backlash continues, it remains to be seen how Paramount and other studios will respond to such criticisms in future projects. For now, Zucker's vocal disapproval highlights the challenges of modernising beloved series without alienating their original creators and dedicated audiences.
