Liam Neeson, known primarily for his acting, surprised audiences by singing in the end credits of The Naked Gun, marking his first professional studio recording. The song, titled My Sweet Beth, is a heartfelt ballad from his character Frank Drebin Jr. to Beth Davenport, played by Pamela Anderson. Throughout the film, Drebin develops a romantic connection with Beth while investigating her brother’s death, and the song serves as a tribute to her.
Director Akiva Schaffer’s Last-Minute Addition to the Film
The decision to include the song in the film was a spontaneous one, revealed by director Akiva Schaffer. As Schaffer prepared to screen the final edit to around 90 friends and family members, he felt the credits needed something extra. He recorded a rough version on his laptop just hours before the screening, which was well received. Eventually, Neeson replaced Schaffer’s vocals, and the song was added at the very last moment.
I always knew I needed to do something in the credits, and finally we were picture-locked and we were in the edit room and I just [recorded the song] into my laptop, put it in the movie, and two hours later we screened it and it did really well,
Schaffer explained.
Then I replaced [my vocals] with Liam… I’m very pleased that we got that in at the buzzer, that we snuck in there.
Neeson’s Humble Approach and Playful Lyrics
Neeson welcomed this unexpected musical moment despite acknowledging he is not a professional singer. He described the song as a fun, lighthearted element rather than a polished performance in the style of Frank Sinatra or Tony Bennett. The quirky lyrics flaunt a playful tone, celebrating Beth’s魅力 and wit with lines like:
Beth, ooooh / Top-shelf curves, and brains to boot / And boots that would top my brain’s top-10 list / Aboot boots, and the curvy brains that bought them / Also, breasts / My sweet Beth.
During the recording, his character’s distractions with instruments such as a bass drum and guitar pay homage to a humorous scene recalling Lionel Richie and Diana Ross’ famous duet Endless Love.
Neeson’s Previous Singing Experience and On-Set Memories
This was not Neeson’s first time singing for a film. He previously performed in 1986’s Duet for One, where he sang in a far less confident context alongside actress Julie Andrews. He recalled that experience with humor and honesty, admitting his nerves and lack of professional singing ability.
Much to my embarrassment, I sang to Julie Andrews,
Neeson recalled.
I played Julie Andrews’ lover, and I’m a third-rate British club singer. I sang Tom Jones’ classic ‘Green Green Grass of Home’ in front of Julie Andrews. Terrified, f‑‑‑ing, terrified.
The Significance of “My Sweet Beth” in The Naked Gun
The inclusion of My Sweet Beth adds a unique and memorable moment to The Naked Gun, showcasing Liam Neeson’s willingness to engage in a playful gag and enriching the film’s emotional undertone. This unexpected final touch highlights the collaborative and spontaneous nature of filmmaking, especially under director Akiva Schaffer’s guidance. Fans can appreciate this sincere, humorous tribute linking the characters’ storyline while offering a surprising musical treat in the closing credits.
