The future of the Liam Neeson Naked Gun sequel remains uncertain after the recent Paramount and Skydance merger, despite the film’s successful release and critical acclaim. Director Akiva Schaffer and producer Erica Huggins both indicated that the shift in studio ownership has halted any forward momentum for a follow-up to Neeson’s installment in the iconic comedy franchise.
Studio Merger Halts Sequel Prospects
When Akiva Schaffer was interviewed by CBR, he revealed that plans for a sequel to the most recent Naked Gun film, which debuted on August 1, 2025, are currently not moving forward. Schaffer suggested that the shake-up at Paramount, which changed hands shortly after the movie’s premiere, played a major role in stalling the project. The comedy was initially designed as a legacy sequel to the famous trilogy that featured Leslie Nielsen, with Liam Neeson stepping into the role of Frank Drebin Jr.
We are not planning another. I don’t know if you heard about Paramount kind of changed owners. It was maybe something. It was about seven days after the movie came out, and so, you know, we’re waiting to hear from see if they would want it. So Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, who wrote the script with me, they do have a list of gags.
– Akiva Schaffer, Director
Schaffer acknowledged that, while he and co-writers Dan Gregor and Doug Mand have brainstormed several comedic moments that could fit a sequel, the fate of the project lies in the hands of the new Paramount leadership after its merger with Skydance. The transition has led to uncertainty about whether the new owners see value in developing another film.
Ideas Still Exist, but No Concrete Plans
According to producer Erica Huggins, the creative team had been considering potential directions for a new installment, but no decisions have been made in light of recent corporate changes.
We have a big idea that we had talked about,
– Erica Huggins, Producer
Despite having a reserve of ideas and big plans, both Schaffer and Huggins agree that the merger is a major obstacle. The definitive factor resting on whether the merged studio wants to pursue the franchise further, and so far, no positive signals have been given.
Positive Reception and Box Office Success
Liam Neeson’s version of The Naked Gun garnered substantial critical and commercial success. The film sits at an 87% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes with 336 reviews, showing strong endorsement by reviewers. Audiences responded favorably as well, giving the film a 72% score based on over 2,500 verified ratings. The box office figures were healthy, bringing in $102.1 million worldwide from a $42 million production budget, positioning the film as a moderate hit for the studio.
The movie’s performance was reflected in awards and nominations too. The Neeson-led comedy won Best Comedy at the Critics Choice Awards and picked up the Best Comedy Film prize from the St. Louis Film Critics Association. These industry recognitions heightened expectations for a sequel and established the cast and characters—including Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr. and Pamela Anderson as Beth Davenport—as significant contributors to the franchise’s continued appeal.
Uncertain Future for the Franchise
Even with success and creative ideas ready to go, the likelihood of a new Naked Gun entry remains in doubt. Akiva Schaffer’s comments have cooled hopes for an immediate sequel, though the unpredictable nature of Hollywood leaves room for potential revival further down the line. Notably, there was a 31-year gap between the original trilogy and Neeson’s film, demonstrating that long waits are not unprecedented for the franchise.
The change in ownership at Paramount following its Skydance merger adds further complexity to the franchise’s direction. If the new leadership recognizes the long-term value of the Naked Gun property, there may yet be a chance for more films. For now, though, Liam Neeson’s return as Frank Drebin Jr. looks to be on indefinite hold, leaving fans and the creative team waiting for renewed interest from the studio.
The Main Cast of Neeson’s Naked Gun
Liam Neeson headlines the cast as Frank Drebin Jr., taking over the iconic comedic mantle from Leslie Nielsen. Pamela Anderson appears as Beth Davenport, contributing her own comedic flair to the ensemble. While additional cast details have not been publicized, these principal actors have played a significant role in the recent revival’s positive reception among both critics and viewers.
Until further notice from Paramount Skydance or any indication of revived interest, any new developments regarding the Liam Neeson Naked Gun sequel will remain on hold, with audiences left to reflect on the success of the legacy installment and ponder the possible directions future films could take if greenlit.
