Vin Diesel Shares Emotional Moments Honoring Paul Walker at Cannes
The Hollywood Reporter
At the Cannes Film Festival, the screening for the 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious franchise drew significant attention. Vin Diesel paid an emotional tribute to the late Paul Walker during this special event. The screening stood out as a remarkable occasion in a Cannes that was missing its stars.
As midnight approached, a large audience gathered around the Grand Lumiere theater. The event was organized more as a 'smart casual' gathering, with Universal requesting guests to dress accordingly, rather than a traditional black-tie affair. Diesel stepped onto the red carpet wearing a jacket adorned with stones that read 'Fast Forever.' Universal plans to release the next film in the franchise, Fast Forever, on March 17, 2028.
The screening featured franchise stars Jordana Brewster and Michelle Rodriguez, as well as producer Neal H. Moritz and Universal president Donna Langley. Additionally, Meadow Walker, the daughter of the late Fast franchise actor Paul Walker, was present at the event. Before the screening, Diesel lightheartedly joked, "I've never seen a midnight screening like this in my life. This film has been out for a while, hasn't it?" eliciting laughter from the audience.
Diesel also reflected on his personal history at the festival, recalling that he showcased a short film here 30 years ago. Noting that Paul Walker passed away at the age of 40 in 2013, Diesel expressed his longing for Walker, stating, "This film is a production that introduced brotherhood to the new millennium. With contributions from my brother and me..." These moments became an unforgettable experience for the audience.