Al Pacino Reflects on Life, Fatherhood, and Iconic Roles in New Autobiography

At 84, Al Pacino is taking a moment to reflect on his storied life and career, and he’s doing it in a very personal way—through his autobiography, titled Sonny Boy, after the nickname given to him by his mother. Sitting in a Beverly Hills hotel suite, Pacino expresses surprise at the notion that he has never been a godfather, noting, “I’m not convinced… I don’t remember anybody asking me that.”

Recently becoming a father for the fourth time, Pacino hopes to share his journey with his youngest child, Roman, who is now 16 months old. “I want to be around for this child. And I hope I am,” he says earnestly, emphasizing his desire for Roman to know who his father is.

Though no longer in a relationship with Roman’s mother, producer Noor Alfallah, the two are co-parenting. Pacino describes their connection primarily through text, saying, “He does text me from time to time,” and adds that they find joy in their virtual interactions, even playing the harmonica together online.

Reflecting on his memoir, Pacino admits to friends that he has some regrets about writing it, having previously turned down offers to share his story. However, he felt that enough had happened in his life to warrant telling it now. He particularly enjoyed revisiting his childhood in New York’s South Bronx and reflecting on his iconic roles.

It’s been over 50 years since The Godfather catapulted him to fame. As he reminisces about the film, he reveals how close he came to being replaced during production due to concerns about his performance. “The studio was putting pressure on Coppola to replace me,” he recalls. But everything changed with one pivotal scene, where his character, Michael Corleone, famously uses a hidden gun to eliminate a mob boss and a corrupt cop. Pacino credits this moment with turning the tide in his favor and shaping his career.

He humorously speculates who might have replaced him if he had been let go, suggesting Robert De Niro could have stepped into the role, which would have altered film history dramatically.

While The Godfather remains a highlight, it’s Scarface that holds a special place in his heart. Initially a box office disappointment, the film has since transformed into a cult classic, embraced by the hip-hop community. Pacino reflects on its journey with pride, noting, “It was powerful… a happy story.”

When asked if he would have preferred an Oscar for Scarface over his win for Scent of a Woman, he acknowledges the thought but ultimately affirms his appreciation for both films.

As Pacino navigates his legacy, fatherhood, and the intricacies of his career, it’s clear that his journey continues to evolve, enriching both his life and the stories he has to tell.