POLICE SQUAD, Leslie Nielsen, 1982
Four decades ago, the television series Police Squad! made a brief yet impactful mark on the world of comedy. Despite its short run, the show laid the foundation for future successes, including the popular film series The Naked Gun. Following the remarkable box office success of the 1980 film Airplane!, which grossed $78 million at the time (approximately $214 million today), co-directors David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker sought to create a similar comedic experience centered around law enforcement.
The inspiration for Police Squad! came from the 1950s drama series M Squad, which featured gritty police work. Michael Eisner, then an executive at Paramount Pictures, who had supported Airplane!, offered the creators a chance to produce six episodes for ABC. He assured them that the project would be free from typical network interference.
Legacy of Laughter and Short-lived Fame
Police Squad! starred the iconic Leslie Nielsen as bumbling officer Frank Drebin, a role that would redefine his career. Previously known for serious dramatic roles, Nielsen’s performance brought a unique deadpan humor to the character. “Leslie never let on that he was in a comedy,” noted Zucker, reflecting on Nielsen’s remarkable timing and delivery.
Each episode opened with the murder of a notable guest star, followed by Drebin’s comedic attempts to solve the case. The series featured appearances from celebrities such as William Shatner and Florence Henderson. Notably, John Belushi filmed a death scene for the show, but after his untimely passing a day after the pilot aired, his segment was ultimately shelved.
Premiering on March 4, 1982, Police Squad! received positive reviews, with critics praising its sharp wit. The Hollywood Reporter described it as “hitting the bullseye with uncanny accuracy.” Yet, despite the acclaim, the show struggled to capture an audience and was cancelled after just four episodes.
A Resurgence and New Chapters
The creators of Police Squad! ultimately found vindication through the film adaptation The Naked Gun, which debuted in 1988. Directed by David Zucker, the film revived Nielsen’s character and introduced it to a broader audience, leading to two successful sequels. A new installment is set to arrive in theaters on August 1, with Liam Neeson portraying Drebin’s son.
While Zucker expressed disappointment over not being involved in the reboot, he takes pride in the resurgence of interest in the original series. “It has really gained a following,” he stated, highlighting the lasting impact Police Squad! has had on the comedy genre.
This reflection on Police Squad! not only celebrates its unique contribution to television history but also underscores how its legacy continues to influence modern comedy.
