Vin Diesel remembered Paul Walker during The Fast and the Furious 25th anniversary screening. The emotional reunion took place Monday night at the Director’s Village Theater in Los Angeles. The location also hosted the original movie’s premiere in 2001.
Vin Diesel remembers Paul Walker at The Fast and the Furious 25th anniversary screening.
Diesel introduced the film alongside producer Neil H. Moritz and co-stars Jordana Brewster and Michelle Rodriguez, as per a Page Six Report. Tyrese Gibson and Meadow Walker, Paul’s daughter, were also spotted among the audience. The celebration marked 25 years since the franchise’s original installment debuted.
During his nearly eight-minute speech, Diesel reflected on the franchise’s beginnings. He also discussed his long-time relationships with his fellow cast members. However, his tribute to Walker became the emotional centerpiece of the evening.
“Twenty-five years ago, I was sitting in this room, and I was sitting with Paul Walker,” Diesel said. He struggled to hold back tears while remembering his late friend. Walker died in a 2013 car crash at age 40.
Diesel described Walker as more than a longtime co-star. “If any of you should ever have the blessing to have a brother like Pablo, it is the greatest gift God could bestow upon you,” he told the crowd. He then encouraged everyone to watch through the lens of their friendship.
Diesel also connected Walker’s memory to the original film’s enduring legacy. “So watch this movie, and see where this eternal brotherhood started in every frame,” he said. His words highlighted how deeply Walker remained connected to the franchise.
The actor also celebrated his relationships with Brewster and Rodriguez. He revealed that his children call Brewster “Auntie Jordana.” Rodriguez, meanwhile, became the godmother of Diesel’s children.
The reunion also featured some of the franchise’s most recognizable cars. The original Dodge Charger and orange Toyota Supra were displayed outside the theater. Their presence added another nostalgic element to the anniversary celebration.
Diesel’s 91-year-old father also attended the screening from New York. The actor praised Universal Pictures during his speech. he also teased the franchise’s final installment, Fast Forever, which is scheduled for March 17, 2028.
The celebration will continue with the upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift ride. Meanwhile, Walker’s memory is closely tied to the franchise he helped launch. Diesel’s emotional tribute showed that bond continues decades after their first film together.
TELL US – WHAT DID YOU THINK OF VIN DIESEL’S TRIBUTE TO PAUL WALKER? DO YOU PLAN TO WATCH FAST FOREVER?
Originally reported by Saumya Srivastava for Reality Tea
