David Zucker is throwing shade at the new Naked Gun reboot while reluctantly giving a thumbs-up. Despite his displeasure, he’s been politely rooting for its success.
What happened
Original Naked Gun director David Zucker couldn’t resist a jab or two at the reboot even as it had a solid opening weekend. However, according to The Hollywood Reporter, he graciously acknowledged the demand for comedy and spoofs in theaters. Zucker texted director Akiva Schaffer, congratulating him on the strong reviews, promising to catch up once the dust settles.
Back in 2023, Zucker and co-writer Pat Proft were miffed at Paramount for handing over their franchise, especially since they’d penned a different Naked Gun 4. Recent remarks show Zucker’s frustrations with Hollywood’s lack of originality, yet he only had good things to say about Schaffer and Seth MacFarlane. As THR reports, Zucker quipped, “I can’t get mad at anyone who will tell me what a genius I am.”
Zucker’s content to focus on his scripts, like Counterintelijence and The Star Of Malta. “I don’t need the money,” he joked, stating that if the reboot’s a hit, Schaffer should bask in the glory.
Even as the Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson-fronted reboot gains success, Zucker has zero interest in watching it. He turned down Schaffer’s invite to see an early cut, sticking to the stance that the film isn’t how he would’ve shaped it.
In the end, Zucker stays in his lane, while the new kids play in theirs. So what’s next? Looks like Zucker is all about crafting his own spoofs, one script at a time.
