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Jim Abrahams, Comedy Legend Behind 'Airplane!' and 'Naked Gun,' Dies at 80

Nov 26, 2024, 05:07 PM

Jim Abrahams, the comedy writer and director known for creating iconic films such as 'Airplane!', 'The Naked Gun,' and 'Hot Shots!', has passed away at the age of 80. Abrahams, along with his childhood friends David and Jerry Zucker, formed the creative trio known as ZAZ, which was responsible for some of the most influential comedy movies of the late 20th century. His work has been celebrated for its enduring humor, with many fans and critics noting the timeless appeal of his films. Abrahams' contributions to comedy were marked by his innovative approach to casting, preferring straight actors over comedians for his projects, a decision that initially met resistance from studios like Paramount.