Al Pacino recently shared details about a severe health scare he endured four years ago, when he contracted COVID-19. In an interview with the New York Times, the 84-year-old actor revealed that he almost died as a result of the virus. Pacino described the experience as surreal, stating that he felt like he was on the brink of death and lost all sense of time and memory. He recalled feeling unwell with a fever and dehydration before ultimately losing his pulse and requiring paramedics to rush to his aid. The actor reflected on the near-death experience, noting that it left a lasting impact on his perspective on life and mortality.
Despite the intensity of the health scare, Pacino expressed a sense of philosophical reflection on the experience. He referenced Shakespeare’s Hamlet and pondered the concept of life and death, noting the finality of the situation when he temporarily lost consciousness. Pacino did not see a white light or have any supernatural experiences, but the encounter with mortality prompted him to contemplate the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. As he gets older, Pacino shared that his perspective on death has evolved, and he now views it as a natural part of life that cannot be avoided.
As Pacino prepares to release his memoir titled “Sonny Boy,” he reflected on the inspiration behind documenting his life story. The actor mentioned that his son, Roman, who was born in 2023, played a significant role in motivating him to share his experiences through writing. Pacino expressed a desire to stick around a little longer to witness his son growing up and to leave behind a piece of his legacy for future generations. The memoir is expected to offer insights into Pacino’s illustrious career in Hollywood, personal struggles, and the lessons he has learned throughout his life.
In the interview, Pacino also discussed the challenges of aging and the surreal experience of facing his mortality during the COVID-19 health scare. The actor described feeling puzzled by the process of aging and expressed a desire to find a way to defy the effects of time. He reflected on the vulnerability he felt when he was struck by the virus and how it made him confront the uncertainty of life and the inevitability of death. Despite the harrowing experience, Pacino emphasized the importance of living in the present and cherishing each moment.
As Pacino continues to navigate the complexities of aging and health challenges, he acknowledged the profound impact that the near-death experience had on him. The actor’s reflections on mortality, life, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind reveal a deeper sense of introspection and appreciation for the fleeting nature of existence. Through his upcoming memoir and candid interviews, Pacino offers a window into his inner thoughts, fears, and hopes as he grapples with the profound questions of life and death in the twilight of his legendary career.
