Al Pacino Reflects on His Near-Death COVID Experience and Changing Views on Life

Al Pacino is sharing his experience with a severe case of COVID-19 that he had in 2020.

The legendary actor spoke with The New York Times about his near-death experience with COVID-19 before vaccines were available, in advance of his upcoming memoir, Sonny Boy.

He explained that he initially felt unwell, later developing a fever and dehydration.

“I had someone bring in a nurse to hydrate me. I was at home, feeling lifeless, with no pulse,” he said. “Within minutes, an ambulance arrived, and I had about six paramedics and two doctors in my living room, all wearing outfits that looked like they were from outer space.”

Pacino found it “shocking” to open his eyes and see everyone around him. “They said, ‘He’s back. He’s here,’” he added.

When asked if his experience had any “metaphysical ripples,” the Oscar-winning actor replied that it did, noting he didn’t see a white light or anything.

“There’s nothing there. As Hamlet says, ‘To be or not to be; the undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns.’ He concludes with ‘No more.’ You’re just gone,” the Godfather star said. “I’d never thought about it before, but actors like to say they died once. What does it mean when there’s no more?”

At 84, he noted that his view of death has changed. He finds comfort in having children and in knowing that his extensive body of work will be appreciated after he’s gone.

“It’s natural to have a different view of death as you age,” Pacino said. “It’s just the way it is. I didn’t ask for it; it just comes, like many things do.”