On Monday, Al Pacino met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, marking the first time an American pope has granted an official audience to a movie star. The high-profile meeting, notable for its cultural significance, saw Pacino lead a delegation connected to the film “Maserati: The Brothers,” which is currently filming in Italy, bringing the focus keyword Al Pacino meets Pope Leo XIV at Vatican into the international spotlight.
Private Vatican Audience Highlights Shared Principles
The gathering at the Holy See was described by the film’s producer, Andrea Iervolino, as a significant event for both religious and artistic communities. The group, which included Pacino and Iervolino, discussed themes shared by both the Catholic Church and the cinematic retelling of the Maserati family’s legacy. Iervolino stated,
“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,”
—Andrea Iervolino, Producer.
According to Iervolino,
“The meeting was 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.”
—Andrea Iervolino, Producer.
Emphasis on Family and Common Good
The audience came as Pope Leo XIV continues to promote messages of solidarity, respect, and unity in his global addresses. Iervolino added,
“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.”
—Andrea Iervolino, Producer.
This convergence of artistic and religious spheres underscores the Vatican’s engagement with contemporary culture and reflects Pacino’s interest in roles that explore complex family histories, such as his new part in “Maserati: The Brothers.”
Pacino’s Role and Production Details
Italian press outlets reported that Al Pacino arrived in Rome via private jet from New York the day before the meeting. Earlier this year, it was announced Pacino would portray Vincenzo Vaccaro, a businessman instrumental in the Maserati family’s early success, in Bobby Moresco’s “Maserati: The Brothers.” Filming is underway in various Italian locations.

The movie features an international ensemble, including Anthony Hopkins, Andy Garcia, Jessica Alba, Michele Morrone, and Salvatore Esposito. None of these cast members attended the papal meeting, but their inclusion signals the broad appeal and scope of the project.
Implications for Church and Cinema
This historic encounter between Pope Leo XIV and Al Pacino signifies a bridging of spiritual leadership and artistic expression, drawing attention to shared values and international collaboration. As production on “Maserati: The Brothers” continues in Italy, the meeting at the Vatican may inspire new conversations around faith, family, and the influence of film on contemporary society.
