Iconic actor Al Pacino narrowly escaped death from COVID-19 during the height of the pandemic in 2020, he recently revealed in interviews. The 84-year-old star of films like The Godfather and Scarface contracted the virus and his condition quickly deteriorated at his home. Pacino told doctors he suddenly felt very unwell before losing consciousness. When he awoke, paramedics and doctors were working to revive him after his heart stopped beating for several minutes.
In an interview with The New York Times, Pacino explained that he became increasingly ill while at home. His health took a turn and he lost consciousness. When he opened his eyes, there was a medical team of six paramedics and two doctors surrounding him in his living room. Pacino said they were dressed in protective equipment and it was shocking to see after passing out. The team informed him that his pulse had stopped and they were able to bring him back.
The brush with death led Pacino to reflect on mortality. He said to the Times that a famous line from Hamlet about the “undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns” stayed with him. Pacino realized in that moment that death means no longer existing in this world. However, speaking to People magazine, Pacino said the experience did not significantly change his outlook on life. He continues to stay busy with acting projects.
Pacino is set to release a memoir later this year where he will provide more details about his illustrious career. The COVID-19 health scare came amid continued success later in life, including a new role in the upcoming film Modì, Three Days on the Wing of Madness. Pacino’s story serves as an example of the dangerous impacts of the virus, even for some of the healthiest. But it also demonstrates his strong will to recover and continue his legendary career in film.
