Al Pacino just met the Pope—but the internet is talking about his outfit

When you picture a Hollywood icon meeting the Pope, you might imagine a grand moment full of dignity and pageantry.

It’s the kind of scene that seems tailor-made for tradition, reverence, and sharp tailoring.

But when Al Pacino, the 85-year-old Oscar-winning actor, became the first movie star to have a private audience with Pope Leo XIV, things didn’t go quite as expected.


The moment was indeed historic—but not for the reasons many anticipated.

Instead, it was Pacino’s unexpected fashion choices that stole the spotlight and had the internet buzzing.


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Al Pacino meets Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, sparking buzz over his casual look during the historic encounter. Image Source: YouTube / Latest News.


A laid-back look sparks online chatter

At the center of the chatter was Pacino’s casual outfit: an untucked shirt, unruly hair, and a full, untrimmed beard.

As photos of the meeting made their way online, reactions ranged from light-hearted amusement to sharp critiques.

“And no one told him to shave and comb his hair?” one user asked on social media.

Others compared the scene to something out of a Godfather sequel, noting Pacino’s rumpled look as either a fashion faux pas—or a bold statement of authenticity.


Also read: A pope of firsts: The surprising legacy Pope Francis leaves behind

A film project with a deeper mission

Pacino wasn’t just in Rome for sightseeing.

He was there to promote Maserati: The Brothers, a film about the legendary Maserati family.

Joined by producer Andrea Iervolino, the delegation met with Pope Leo XIV to discuss themes at the heart of the movie—family, compassion, unity, and service to the greater good.

The Pope, the first American pontiff, has spoken frequently about those very values.

As a gesture of goodwill, Pacino and Iervolino gifted him a scale model of a Maserati.


Also read: History is made—The first American Pope’s speaks his first words to the world

Celebrity meets spirituality—and a bit of humor

Online responses mixed reverence with humor.

Some fans imagined the Pope being starstruck by the Godfather himself.

Others joked that Pacino looked like he’d just rolled out of bed, but “that’s Al!”

As one commenter summed it up: “Looking good for 85, but still looking 85.”

The actor’s choice of attire may have stirred laughs, but it also prompted a larger reflection on aging, public appearances, and celebrity culture.


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Al Pacino shares a moment with Pope Leo XIV during their private meeting at the Vatican, blending Hollywood and history in an unexpected way. Image Source: Instagram /deadline.


Also read: A Fox News guest suddenly collapsed on live TV

Style, statements, and the meaning behind the moment

Was it a style misstep or a reflection of Pacino’s disregard for superficial expectations?

That’s up for debate.

Known for doing things his own way throughout his long career, Pacino’s look may have underscored the message that substance matters more than image—even when meeting the Pope.

And for a man who’s played some of cinema’s most powerful characters, perhaps being his authentic self was the most powerful move of all.


Source: YouTube / CBS Sunday Morning


A thoughtful moment beneath the headlines

Despite the headlines and hashtags, the meeting held real significance.

It wasn’t just about promoting a movie—it was a rare coming together of spiritual and cultural voices.

And at a time when global institutions are increasingly engaging with art and storytelling, the exchange between the Pope and Pacino may mark a new chapter in those conversations.

Read next: “I’m still standing.” Hollywood outcast roars back with shock Cannes win

Key Takeaways

  • Al Pacino became the first movie star to meet the new Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, in connection with his upcoming film Maserati: The Brothers.
  • The actor’s unkempt appearance, including his untucked shirt and unshaven beard, drew criticism and sparked debate on social media.
  • The meeting with the Pope was described by producer Andrea Iervolino as spiritually and culturally inspiring, focusing on shared values of family, love, and the common good reflected in both the Church and the film.
  • During the visit, Pacino and Iervolino donated a model Maserati car to the Pope, and highlighted the ongoing filming of Maserati: The Brothers with a star-studded cast in Italy.

Was Pacino’s look a bold statement or a missed opportunity? Would you dress for comfort when meeting a world leader, or stick with tradition? And what do you make of Hollywood’s growing interactions with global faith communities?

Share your thoughts, questions, or even your own fashion regrets in the comments—we’re all about real talk here at The GrayVine!
 

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