Jim Abrahams, the legendary writer-director known for comedy classics like Airplane!, The Naked Gun, and Police Squad, has passed away at 80. His son Joseph confirmed to THR that he died of natural causes at his Santa Monica home on November 26.
James S. Abrahams, born May 10, 1944, in Shorewood, Wisconsin, was the son of Louise M. Abrahams and Norman S. Abrahams. His comedic talent was shaped by his friendship with the Zucker brothers from Shorewood High School and the University of Wisconsin. In 1971, they formed the ZAZ group, creating the Kentucky Fried Theater, which moved to LA in 1972. There, John Landis directed their adaptation, The Kentucky Fried Movie, featuring sketches like 'A Fistful Of Yen.' Their 1980 film Airplane!, a spoof of Zero Hour, established their comedic legacy with rapid-fire gags. Abrahams co-created Police Squad! in 1982, leading to The Naked Gun films, and directed Top Secret!, spoofing Elvis movies and WWII espionage.
Abrahams' talent in writing and directing led to the creation of the Top Gun parody Hot Shots! and its sequel, Hot Shots! Part Deux, featuring a humorous scene with Martin and Charlie Sheen referencing their roles in Platoon and Apocalypse Now. This highlights Abrahams' quirky comedic style and film knowledge. In a 2016 Vulture interview, Abrahams discussed the enduring affection for Airplane!, emphasizing his humility and belief in laughter as a remedy. "Even in 'Don’t call me Shirley,' we show that some cultural aspects don't need to be taken seriously," he noted, acknowledging the line's continued humor.
Revisiting the films of Abrahams and his ZAZ collaborators reminds us of his unique humor and ability to find levity in challenging times, becoming increasingly comforting. James S. Abrahams will be deeply missed, and our thoughts are with his wife Nancy Cocuzzo; his sons Joseph and Charlie; his daughter Jamie; and his grandchildren, Caleb, James, and Isaac during this difficult period.