Pamela Anderson is stepping into the spotlight as a femme fatale in Paramount’s highly anticipated reboot of The Naked Gun. This summer, the iconic actress, known for her role in Baywatch, is trading emotional drama for high-octane absurdity, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Following her career-defining performance in The Last Showgirl, Anderson is thrilled to embrace the comedic chaos that comes with this beloved franchise.
In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly, Anderson shared her excitement about playing Beth, a glamorous woman who seeks assistance from the Police Squad after her brother's mysterious murder. The film promises to retain the absurd humor that defined the original series, with Anderson channeling full femme fatale energy reminiscent of Priscilla Presley's character from the original trilogy.
“It is the same depth of process for a high comedy as it is for a drama,” Anderson stated, emphasizing her commitment to the role. She described the experience as cathartic, noting that every film she tackles addresses deep-seated issues in unique ways. “I worked hard on the role, another cathartic experience. Every film, it seems, tackles a deep-seated issue that needs to be expressed and surfaced in ways other than anything else,” she explained.
The reboot features Liam Neeson as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the iconic detective played by the late Leslie Nielsen. Neeson’s casting may seem surprising given his action-heavy career, but Anderson believes his approach to comedy will shine. “Oh, yes! We cracked up a few times,” she admitted when asked about maintaining a straight face during filming. “There is no trick — the best strategy is to play the scenes dramatically and truthfully. The comedy is for the audience, not for us. We are in the moment.”
Anderson described Neeson as “mysterious,” “inspiring,” and a “true gentleman.” Their chemistry was evident from the start, and she expressed admiration for his work ethic. “It was electric in a way. He is a legend and deserving of the title,” she said. Neeson, in turn, has openly praised Anderson, stating, “With Pamela, first off, I’m madly in love with her. She’s just terrific to work with.”
The first look at Anderson’s character showcases her in a sleek outfit with a beret and oversized sunglasses, embodying the classic femme fatale archetype. While details about Beth remain scarce, Anderson revealed that their characters share a romantic tension, adding an intriguing layer to the film.
This reboot serves as a legacy sequel to 1994's Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult, marking the fourth entry in the franchise. Anderson’s casting comes on the heels of her critically acclaimed performance in The Last Showgirl, where she portrayed a veteran Las Vegas showgirl navigating personal challenges. Despite the stark contrast between the two roles, Anderson insists that both required a similar depth of emotional engagement.
“I think it’s timely for a beloved comedy like this. I’m a fan of the originals. As Liam says, ‘We could all use a good giggle,’” Anderson said, expressing hope that audiences will embrace the reboot. The film, directed by Akiva Schaffer, features an ensemble cast, including Paul Walter Hauser, CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddy Yu, and Danny Huston.
Anderson’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable, and she is hopeful about the potential for future collaborations with Neeson. “I pray we do more,” she said, hinting at the possibility of continuing the comedic partnership. The chemistry between the two actors has been a focal point in promotional materials, and both have shared personal anecdotes about their time together on set.
In addition to her role in The Naked Gun, Anderson is also set to appear in Kornél Mundruczó's upcoming drama Place to Be, alongside Ellen Burstyn and Taika Waititi. This film follows an elderly woman and a middle-aged man who form an unlikely bond while returning a lost racing pigeon, showcasing Anderson's ability to navigate diverse genres.
As the release date approaches, excitement surrounding The Naked Gun continues to build. Scheduled to hit theaters on August 1, 2025, the film promises to deliver the same absurd humor that fans have come to love while introducing a new generation to the franchise. With Anderson and Neeson at the helm, audiences can expect a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and nostalgia.
In a cinematic landscape filled with legacy sequels, The Naked Gun stands out as a beloved franchise ready for a fresh take. Anderson’s return to comedy, combined with Neeson’s unexpected foray into the genre, sets the stage for a film that could resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike. “We had so much fun making it,” Anderson reiterated, a sentiment that encapsulates the spirit of this reboot.
As the countdown to the premiere begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be a hilarious and heartwarming addition to the comedy canon. With Anderson’s charm and Neeson’s comedic timing, The Naked Gun reboot may just become a summer blockbuster that audiences will cherish for years to come.
