Vin Diesel Gets Emotional at Cannes Screening of “The Fast and the Furious”

Vin Diesel became emotional at a special midnight screening of “The Fast and the Furious” at the Cannes Film Festival, where the 2001 movie was honored as a classic 25 years after its release.

Diesel fought back tears while speaking to the audience after the film ended. He said watching the movie again reminded him of his close friendship with late co-star Paul Walker, who died in 2013.

“I pray that in your life, you can have a brother like Paul,” Diesel told the crowd.

The screening also included several members of the “Fast & Furious” family, including actors Jordana Brewster and Michelle Rodriguez, along with Walker’s daughter, Meadow Walker. Audience members gave the group a four-minute standing ovation, and many in the theater became emotional.

Diesel said it is difficult for him to watch the movie because many scenes now carry personal memories. He recalled moments with Walker during filming and spoke warmly about Meadow Walker, who is now 27 years old — the same age her father was when he made the first film.

“She said, ‘I’m 27, and I’m watching this film that my father made at 27,’” Diesel shared. “I thought, ‘How profound.’”

The event took place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. Diesel arrived wearing a blazer with the words “Fast Forever” on the back, referencing the long-running movie franchise.

Before the movie began, Diesel thanked Cannes Film Festival director Thierry Frémaux for inviting the film to the festival. He also reflected on his own history at Cannes, saying he first attended more than 30 years ago as an unknown filmmaker carrying his belongings in a laundry bag.

The crowd warmly welcomed Diesel throughout the evening, cheering and applauding several times during his speech.

Diesel also confirmed that the final “Fast & Furious” movie is planned for release in 2028. He thanked fans for their support over the years.

“The only reason why we’re making the finale of ‘Fast’ for 2028 is because of each and every one of you,” Diesel said. “You make us want to make you all proud.”