**Leslie Nielsen’s Legendary Pranks on the Set of *Airplane!***
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When discussing the legacy of comedic actor Leslie Nielsen, many associate him with his iconic role in the 1980 spoof film *Airplane!*. Not only did this film help to solidify Nielsen’s status as a comedy star, but it also showcased his penchant for practical jokes on set, something that former co-star Robert Hays recalls fondly.
During a recent episode of the *Naked Lunch* podcast, Hays shared amusing anecdotes about the antics of Nielsen, who was notorious for his playful spirit. Phil Rosenthal, the podcast host and creator of *Everybody Loves Raymond*, expressed his admiration for Nielsen, reminiscing about how he would cleverly disarm newcomers with a harmless prank.
According to Rosenthal, Nielsen had a unique way of breaking the ice — by using a concealed fart machine. He would approach unsuspecting individuals with a perfectly serious demeanor and introduce himself while surreptitiously activating the device. Rosenthal’s delightful recollection highlighted how this humorous approach made initial encounters both memorable and light-hearted.
Hays, who portrayed the anxious former pilot Ted Striker in the film, described witnessing one of Nielsen’s classic pranks unfold in person. He recalled sitting on set while various extras arrived to participate in the filming. Among them were two young women who appeared to be in their early twenties. They were visibly excited to meet the legendary actor.
The moment they spotted Nielsen, one of the women instinctively decided to introduce herself. Hays could sense the buoyancy in the air as she dashed over, eager to engage with the esteemed star. However, moments later, she returned to her friends, visibly flustered, reporting that Nielsen had pulled off one of his trademark jokes.
Hays remarked that he immediately recognised the situation and understood how deep into the prank Nielsen had gone. The fart machine, a fixture of the actor’s humour, had once again done its job of eliciting laughter and surprise. For Hays, such incidents were not just hilarious but also reflective of the joy that Nielsen brought to the filming environment.
The film *Airplane!* itself was a satire of the disaster films of the 1970s, featuring Hays in a leading role as a panic-stricken pilot who must overcome his fear of flying to save an ailing aircraft. Nielsen’s portrayal of Dr. Rumack provided comedic depth and contributed significantly to the film’s success, rebranding him as a master of comedy despite his previous dramatic roles.
Leslie Nielsen’s playful nature on set is an essential part of his legacy, which endears him to audiences and fellow actors alike. He passed away in November 2010, at the age of 84, leaving behind a rich body of work and countless stories that highlight both his talent and his unique sense of humour.
As fans continue to celebrate Nielsen’s contributions to cinema and comedy, the memories shared by those he worked with serve as a reminder of his legendary status in the industry. The tales of his pranks, particularly on the beloved *Airplane!*, are sure to keep his spirit alive among entertainment enthusiasts for years to come.