The world lost a true comedic genius this week, as Leslie Nielsen passed away from complications of pneumonia at the age of 84.
Saint Peter may be having trouble unlocking the Pearly Gates to let him in—as his hand is probably shaking too hard from laughter.
Deadpan lines, often corny or absurd, delivered from a face that was determined to be a serious dramatic actor—and yet it was this quality, this paradox of appearance that made Leslie Nielsen a complete hoot.
Born in Canada, Nielsen made his initial mark on TV in what was known as “Television’s Golden Age”—appearing in many dramatic roles. Cast alongside the likes of Debbie Reynolds and Anne Francis, he was a handsome romantic lead actor who landed a long-term deal with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
Despite moderate success with these roles, it was his supporting role in the disaster spoof “Airplane!” in 1980 that became the turning point in his career. Nielsen was cast alongside other dramtic actors on purpose. Peter Graves, Lloyd Bridges and Robert Stack all abandoned their serious “images” to star in this hilarious film, loaded with puns and absurd banter.
Leslie Nielsen’s career had found a new direction! After “Airplane!”, the “Naked Gun” series of movies (based on the short-lived “Police Squad” TV series) cemented his star power. Slapstick comedy and an unintentional comic career direction gave double meaning to the title of this blog: Funny By Accident!
Here is a montage of clips from some movies in which Nielsen appeared---some of the other players are portrayed here—but it is 100% funny:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcKJdmXbBBc
Leslie Nielsen appeared in over 100 films and 1,500 TV programs, playing over 220 characters.
Characters they were, every one. Rest in peace, Leslie Nielsen!
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