Jim Abrahams, the comedy genius behind classics like Airplane!, the Naked Gun films, and Police Squad!, has passed away at the age of 80 from natural causes at his home in Santa Monica, California. Abrahams, alongside Jerry and David Zucker, formed the legendary “ZAZ” trio, revolutionizing comedy with their unique blend of absurdity and deadpan humor. Their 1980 disaster-film spoof Airplane! became a cultural phenomenon, earning $83 million worldwide on a $3.5 million budget and delivering iconic moments like Leslie Nielsen’s deadpan exchange, “Surely, you can’t be serious.” “I am serious … and don’t call me Shirley.”

Beyond Airplane!, Abrahams co-created Police Squad!, which inspired the hit Naked Gun series starring Nielsen as Detective Frank Drebin, and co-wrote other comedy staples like Top Secret!, Ruthless People, and the Hot Shots! films. He also directed solo projects such as Mafia! and Scary Movie 4. Abrahams is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Nancy Cocuzzo; their children, Joseph, Charlie, and Jamie; and three grandchildren.