Jerry Zucker, co-director of the 1980s comedy classic "Airplane!," has expressed concerns that cancel culture is contributing to a decline in the production of comedies in Hollywood. Speaking during an event tied to the auction of iconic film props, Zucker suggested that studios are increasingly reluctant to invest in comedy projects due to fears of backlash over edgy or sensitive content.

The 76-year-old filmmaker, known for his work on "Airplane!" and "The Naked Gun" trilogy, highlighted what he sees as a diminished appreciation for comedy within the industry. Zucker noted that many studio executives, particularly those in their 50s and 60s, remain cautious about backing comedic material amid what he described as ongoing "wokeness" pressures. This environment, he said, has led studios to prioritize other genres they consider safer bets.

According to Zucker, the financial calculus also disfavors comedy. He pointed out that comedies often perform best when released in theaters—a format that studios are increasingly hesitant to support—unlike big-budget franchise films that generate substantial box office revenue and sustained fan engagement. He contrasted the promotional efforts for costly intellectual property projects like Marvel films or Star Wars sequels, which studios heavily market to protect their investments, with the limited marketing budgets allotted to comedies.

Zucker said studios typically favor high-profile action or franchise movies, which they view as "tentpole" productions capable of spawning sequels and extended revenue streams. In contrast, comedy films often receive less attention and fewer resources, both in production and promotion.

During the auction event, a notable item included an 8-foot inflatable autopilot doll named Otto from "Airplane!," which sold for approximately £160,000. Zucker's comments reflect broader industry debates about the evolving landscape of film production and the place of comedy in a market dominated by franchise-driven content and heightened sensitivity to cultural issues.

While some industry figures argue that sensitivity to content is necessary for evolving audience expectations, Zucker’s remarks underscore the challenges faced by comedy filmmakers navigating the current cultural and economic climate in Hollywood.