Hollywood royalty met religious leadership Monday when Al Pacino visited the Vatican for an unprecedented private audience. The legendary actor became one of the first entertainment figures to meet Pope Leo XIV during a special audience on Monday, marking a historic moment between the newly elected American pontiff and the Oscar-winning actor, according to Deadline. The 84-year-old screen icon traveled to Rome for the meeting, which centered around his upcoming film project about Italian automotive legends.
The private gathering included Italian producer Andrea Iervolino, who is bringing the Maserati family story to life in “Maserati: The Brothers,” a biographical drama featuring Pacino alongside Anthony Hopkins and Andy Garcia, both outlets reported. Pacino portrays Vincenzo Vaccaro, an early supporter and investor who played a crucial role in the automotive dynasty’s success, the outlet reports.
“We are honored to announce that this morning His Holiness Pope Leo XIV received in a private audience at the Holy See a delegation from the film ‘Maserati: The Brothers,’ including Oscar winner actor Al Pacino and the film’s producer Andrea Iervolino,” the producer stated, as reported by Variety.
A Meeting of Shared Values
The encounter represented more than a celebrity meet-and-greet. It focused instead on meaningful themes connecting the film’s message with the Pope’s teachings. Iervolino characterized the meeting as “a moment of profound spiritual and cultural inspiration, centered around shared values that lie at the heart of both the Catholic Church and the film: family unity, love, compassion, and the importance of contributing to the common good,” according to statements provided to Deadline.
The producer further explained the connection between the film’s themes and the pontiff’s message: “These values, which Pope Leo XIV has consistently emphasized in his recent messages to the world, resonate deeply with the story of the Maserati brothers: a family whose legacy was built not only on innovation and excellence but on profound mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared vision.”
Italian press reports noted that Pacino arrived in Rome via private jet from New York on Sunday, specifically for this visit to the Vatican, Variety reported. The meeting has additional significance as Pope Leo XIV represents several historic firsts for the Catholic Church.
Breaking New Ground
Pope Leo XIV’s election last month marked multiple milestones for the papacy. While Pope Francis was the first Holy Father from the Americas, Leo XIV became the first pontiff from the United States. The new pope, who became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015, also represents the first member of the Augustinian Order to lead the Catholic Church. He previously served as the order’s leader for several years.
“Maserati: The Brothers” continues filming in Italy, with Magenta Light Studios recently acquiring U.S. distribution rights, according to Deadline. The biographical drama will premiere on more than 2,000 screens across the United States and Canada. Additional releases are planned for Italy and Spain, bringing the story of automotive innovation and family values to audiences worldwide.
The post Al Pacino Makes History Meeting Pope Leo XIV appeared first on EntertainmentNow.