Top 10 Funniest Leslie Nielsen Moments

“Wrongfully Accused” (1998)

In this funny scene, Leslie Nielsen’s Ryan Harrison finds himself in an unlikely situation. The character ends up wrongly convicted and escaping a bus accident, but things take a turn in this comical sequence. This parody of “The Fugitive” takes you into a fantastical world where trains come alive. Nielsen’s hero narrowly avoids injury, although he still must outrun a locomotive. It’s so absurd that it’s hard not to love it. Defying all logic, this thriller spoof gleefully breaks the rules so the comedy star can get big laughs.

“Superhero Movie” (2008)

Leslie Nielsen plays Albert Riker in this spoof film. He’s much different than Uncle Ben from the “Spider-Man” comics, accidentally testing his nephew with a nail gun. Rick shows off his fast reflexes before the uncle tries the same with Kevin Hart’s Trey. The latter has a much more violent reaction to the nail, flailing around in pain as Nielsen’s character doesn’t bat an eye. It’s a chaotic moment with a great mix of comedic styles. The older comedian shows he can brighten up a scene with just a few lines and some choice reactions.

“Repossessed” (1990)

If you love “The Exorcist,” you might enjoy this cleverly-titled parody. Leslie Nielsen plays Father Jedediah Mayii, who prepares for another exorcism. This involves an in-depth and comical routine, blending horror parody with a sports movie like “Rocky.” Nielsen gives his all as he drains a shake and boxes a chicken. It all plays out like an entertaining training montage. He even throws in the sign of the cross, but he does it as many times as possible in another silly beat. This comical salute to the William Friedkin film might not be the most sophisticated, but it does have enjoyable scenes that let Nielsen flex his comedy chops.

“The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!” (1988)

Many of the gags in “The Naked Gun” are based around simple jokes you can’t help but love. This particular setup features Frank Drebin questioning a dock worker. When the latter isn’t answering questions, the detective decides to make a bold move. The scene then flips on its head when the worker needs information from Drebin. These two characters end up trading bills back and forth in a funny reversal of a typical interrogation. Nielsen’s performance here really sells the silly concept in another example of his comedic talents. When the pair start up again, they keep the routine going like a classic vaudeville team.

“Scary Movie 3” (2003)

In a fantastic casting choice, “Scary Movie 3” gives us a chance to see Leslie Nielsen as an anxious and alien-averse president. During an awards ceremony, Harris thinks he’s surrounded by imposters. In a sudden and violent twist, Nielsen attacks everyone regardless of who they are. This includes a ridiculous encounter where he headbutts a girl. It’s an absolutely bonkers series of moments that lead up to an equally wild escape. Nielsen plays the most extreme version of a politician… or at least what used to be the most extreme version.

“Wrongfully Accused” (1998)

After hotwiring a car, Ryan Harrison must drive it as he endures a few malfunctions. This results in some amazing physical comedy from Nielsen. Not only does he have to bounce around in the moving car, he also has to get out of it. Harrison keeps going despite the insane predicament, leading to him having more funny convulsions once he exits. It’s an undeniable masterclass in goofy movements. Without having to say a word, the actor levels the audience with laughter. It almost makes you forget that you’re watching a parody of serious thrillers.

“Naked Gun 33 ⅓: The Final Insult” (1994)

During a tense situation at the Oscars, Lieutenant Frank Drebin tries to handle a hostage crisis. He’s holding an explosive envelope and the villain Rocco Dillon points a gun at Drebin’s wife Jane. In a moment of misguided thoughts, the hero switches the bomb for the firearm. This prompts some amazing reactions from the Academy Awards attendees. Leslie Nielsen plays the move-up in a confused performance that’s all the better with this crazy twist. As both a parody of hostage negotiations and high-stakes action, this finale delivers with an inspired decision that lets Nielsen be as goofy as ever.

“The Naked Gun 2 ½: The Smell of Fear” (1991)

Most movie gunfights try to be slick, stylish, and as violent as possible. This particular one lets Leslie Nielsen’s Frank Drebin do the exact opposite. “The Naked Gun 2” features a shootout where the lieutenant fires at assailants despite their short distance away. It’s a wonderfully-dumb gag that makes fun of action-movie choreography. Nielsen sells the urgency of the moment, but he also gives you the sense that his cop character is super inept. He manages to survive the ordeal, but still leaves us chuckling by fumbling his way through this set piece.

“The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!” (1988)

Not only is this a memorable scene, it’s also a cautionary tale. Frank Drebin takes a bathroom break without realizing that he’s still wearing a microphone. The result is a waterfall of endless laughs and funny noises, including everything you’d expect from “The Naked Gun” series. Nielsen doesn’t hold back here as his character embarrasses himself. Even if you’re not into this kind of humor, you have to admire the actor’s dedication to this bit. It’s such a long session in the restroom that you’ll be giggling at how far the filmmakers push the joke.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Nielsen’s Character Doesn’t Need an Ordinary Snowboard in This Absurd Chase

The Actor Plays a Goofy President Who Doesn’t Realize He’s Lost His Clothes

This Version of the Vampire Doesn’t Hold Back When Considering His Darkly Humorous Past

This Funny Scene Turns a Flashback on Its Head

Nielsen Gives One of the Most Memorable Renditions of the Anthem We Can Recall

“Airplane!” (1980)

It might be the most famous line of Leslie Nielsen’s career. As one of the stars of this spoof, Nielsen brings his deadpan perfection to this quote. He’s so serious that it only makes this particular phrase sing for his performance. Playing opposite Robert Hays as Ted Striker, Nielsen becomes the perfect foil as Dr. Rumack. Rumack both misunderstands Striker and believes that he’s been called by a different name. Even if it doesn’t make any sense, the exchange lives on in the history of film comedy. The comedic actor is at the peak of his powers, delivering work that’s sharp, well-timed, and never winking at the audience.