The worlds of professional wrestling and cinematic comedy are once again intersecting, this time with WWE’s top star, Cody Rhodes, making a surprising and humorous cameo in the highly anticipated reboot of ‘The Naked Gun’ franchise.
This unexpected collaboration echoes a memorable moment from 1994, when the original ‘Naked Gun’ stars, Leslie Nielsen and George Kennedy, made a funny appearance at SummerSlam. Their ‘super sleuths’ storyline had them comically searching for the real Undertaker amidst a feud involving an imposter, firmly cementing a quirky link between the wrestling and comedy worlds.
Thirty-one years later, the revamped ‘Naked Gun’ returns, starring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson. For wrestling enthusiasts, the new film holds a special appeal as Cody Rhodes steps into a cameo role, notably engaging in a comical altercation with Neeson’s character, Frank Drebin Jr., where Rhodes plays a bartender sporting a rather unconvincing wig.
The transition of professional wrestlers into successful Hollywood actors has become a well-established phenomenon, with figures like Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, John Cena, and Dave Bautista commanding significant presence on the big screen. Cody Rhodes, currently the undeniable face of WWE, is now beginning to explore this acting avenue, following in the footsteps of these crossover stars.
Rhodes’ involvement in the film was initially announced in May 2024 as a brief cameo. During an April interview, he shared his perspective, admitting it felt ‘a little weird’ to be heavily promoted for such a small role. However, he also spoke highly of his experience working with veteran actor Liam Neeson, describing him as ‘professional and gentle’ and asserting that this is the ‘perfect time’ for ‘The Naked Gun’ franchise to make its comeback.
Despite its short duration, Rhodes’ appearance is a significant moment for his career and for fans, showcasing his willingness to explore diverse entertainment platforms beyond the wrestling ring. The scene, which depicts Liam Neeson’s character humorously manhandling Rhodes, fits perfectly within the slapstick comedic style that defines the ‘Naked Gun’ films, providing a memorable moment for viewers.
Looking ahead, Cody Rhodes is set for a much more substantial acting role, having been cast as Guile in the upcoming film adaptation of the popular video game ‘Street Fighter.’ This larger commitment signals a serious move into the acting world for Rhodes, affirming that his ‘Naked Gun’ cameo is just the beginning of his journey to establish himself as a versatile performer in Hollywood.
