Al Pacino, one of the most influential actors of his generation, revealed that his pulse stopped and he nearly died after contracting COVID-19 in 2020. The 84-year-old actor, who has appeared in over 70 films, recounted this terrifying experience in an interview with ‘The New York Times.’
Describing it as a “strange porridge,” Pacino recalled feeling “unusually not good,” with symptoms like fever and dehydration, before his condition took a sudden and grave turn. He vividly described the moment when he lost his pulse and paramedics rushed to his aid, saving his life.
In his recount of the event, Pacino shared how he was at home when he suddenly felt like he was no longer present. He mentioned being surrounded by six paramedics and two doctors, dressed in protective gear that he said looked as though they were “from outer space.”
When he opened his eyes and heard them say, “He’s back. He’s here,” it was a moment of disbelief for him. Reflecting on the severity of his condition, Pacino said his pulse had vanished, and he was struck by the thought of how fleeting life can be. He described the experience as if he had no memories, as though he was slipping away into nothingness.
As a father of four, Pacino’s personal life continues to evolve. Last year, at the age of 83, he welcomed his youngest son, Roman, with his 30-year-old girlfriend, Noor Alfallah. He expressed how having a new child has given him a renewed sense of purpose, fueling his desire to “stick around a little longer.”
Pacino reflected on how children bring a sense of consolation in life, especially as one grows older. He acknowledged that as he ages, his perception of mortality has naturally shifted, something that just happens without asking for it, like many other things in life.
However, Pacino later questioned the exact nature of his near-death experience. Speaking to People magazine, he wondered if he had truly come as close to death as he initially believed. Although others thought he had died, Pacino said he might not have, as he joked that if he had died, “I fainted.”
His skepticism about the experience came from the fact that so many people were around him at the time, and he survived, which left him questioning whether he had indeed crossed that threshold.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pacino has been celebrated for his work as a method actor, with his portrayal of Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ remaining one of his most iconic roles.
He has also earned an Oscar, a Tony, and an Emmy, marking his achievements in film, theater, and television. Despite his near-death scare, Pacino continues to make headlines, recently presenting the Best Actor Oscar at this year’s Academy Awards, where he caused a stir by forgetting to announce the 10 nominees before revealing the winner.
Pacino’s career shows no signs of slowing down. His latest film, *Modi, Three Days On The Wing Of Madness*, premiered at the San Sebastian Film Festival last week. In addition to his work on screen, Pacino is set to release his memoir, “Sonny Boy,’later this month.
The memoir will offer insights into his life and career, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the man behind some of cinema’s most memorable characters.
As Pacino reflects on his mortality and brushes with death, his new child has become a symbol of hope and longevity. While he may question the exact nature of his near-death experience, the actor’s story is a reminder of how unpredictable life can be.
At 84, with a career that spans decades and a new chapter in his personal life, Pacino remains an enduring figure in Hollywood, determined to keep living and creating for as long as possible.
