Neeson's turn as Frank Drebin Jr. in Paramount's reboot of The Naked Gun has reignited interest in slapstick comedies and brought new life to a classic franchise. The film's strong box office performance and overwhelmingly positive critical reception prompted speculation about possible sequels.

The film, one of the few comedies getting a theatrical release this year, generated about $17 million at the box office.

“Because we’re all fucked. And we need a few giggles,” he told Variety Monday at the movie’s New York City premiere. He delivered the line in the deadpan style of his on-screen persona, Frank Drebin Jr., the biological (and spiritual) heir to Leslie Nielsen’s iconic police lieutenant. The character last graced the big screen in 1994.