Cannes 2026: Vin Diesel breaks down as he remembers Paul Walker at The Fast and the Furious 25th anniversary screening
At the Cannes Film Festival, the team of The Fast and the Furious came together for the movie's 25th anniversary screening.
The Fast and the Furious franchise took center stage at the Cannes Film Festival 2026 during a special midnight screening celebrating its 25th anniversary. Vin Diesel, joined by Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster, reflected on the legacy of the films and the bond they continue to share with late actor Paul Walker. Before addressing the packed Grand Lumière Theatre, Diesel broke down in tears and said, “I pray that in your life, you can have a brother like Paul.”
Meadow Walker represents Paul Walker’s legacy
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when Diesel spoke about Meadow Walker, Paul Walker’s daughter, who attended the celebration alongside the cast. Speaking about her presence, Diesel said, “The person who was not going to let me come alone here to represent that brotherhood was Meadow Walker. I’m gonna go and shed a tear real quick.”
Earlier in the evening, Meadow joined Diesel, Rodriguez and Brewster on the Cannes red carpet. Meadow has continued to honor Walker's memory through the Paul Walker Foundation. She also made an appearance in Fast X and has remained closely connected to the franchise family, with Diesel serving as her godfather.
Reflecting on the impact of the franchise and its loyal fanbase, Diesel teased the upcoming finale, Fast Forever, set for release on March 17, 2028. He said, “The only reason why we’re making the finale for Fast for 2028… It’s because of each and every one of you that has given us your hearts and your loyalty. Each and every one of you that has felt like you are a part of our family. You make us have to continue. You make us want to make you all proud.”
Before the screening began, Diesel described the original 2001 film as “the beginning of one word… and that word is love.” After the credits rolled, Meadow addressed the audience with Diesel by her side. Calling the cast a “source of strength,” she received an emotional embrace from Diesel, who told her that Paul would be “so proud” of her as the audience erupted into applause.
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