The Surprising Reason Al Pacino Quit Drugs

Al Pacino has opened up about his experience with alcohol and drugs, and you might be surprised by the reason he decided to give them up.

At a glance:

  • Al Pacino reveals blackouts caused him to quit drugs and alcohol, staying sober for over 40 years.
  • He credits mentor Charlie Laughton for his sobriety after realizing AA wasn’t for him.
  • Despite rumors, Pacino remains close with Noor Alfallah as they co-parent their son Roman.

Al Pacino, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in Scarface and The Godfather, has opened up about his struggles with drugs and alcohol, revealing the heartbreaking reason he decided to quit. In a recent interview with People, published on Tuesday, October 9, Pacino, now 84, shared that he began experiencing memory blackouts at a young age, which ultimately pushed him to get clean. “I started to forget things at a very young age — they called them blackouts, so I got nervous,” the actor admitted. These episodes frightened him, leading him to rethink his habits and make a change for his health and well-being.

Pacino’s battle with addiction began early. He dabbled in drinking at just 9 years old and casually smoked marijuana by 13. The star lost two close friends to drug abuse, which also weighed heavily on him. These personal losses and the blackouts were enough to motivate Pacino to quit drugs and alcohol, a decision he made in 1977. Though he briefly attended Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), he found that the program wasn’t for him. Instead, he credits his mentor and sponsor of sorts, Charlie Laughton, for guiding him through sobriety and helping him stay on track for over four decades.

In addition to addressing his past addiction, Pacino has also opened up about his personal life in recent years. He shares a daughter, Julie Marie, with ex-girlfriend Jan Tarrant, and twins Anton and Olivia with ex Beverly D’Angelo. Most recently, Pacino welcomed a son, Roman, in 2023 with Noor Alfallah, a relationship that has garnered media attention.

Rumors circulated about a potential breakup between Pacino and Alfallah after she was spotted leaving the Chateau Marmont with comedian Bill Maher. However, Pacino’s rep clarified the situation, stating, “Al and Noor are very good friends, have been for years, and are co-parents to their son Roman.”

Pacino’s life has been filled with personal and professional challenges, but his decision to get clean over 40 years ago has allowed him to focus on his family and career, while maintaining strong relationships with those closest to him.