Cannes, en.SERU.co.id — The grand family reunion of the Fast & Furious franchise at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival turned into a deeply emotional moment on Wednesday (13/5/2026) as Vin Diesel paid special tribute to Meadow Walker, daughter of the late Paul Walker.
What began as a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the original 2001 film evolved into a heartfelt gathering that highlighted the enduring bond within the “Fast Family.” Meadow Walker, now 27, joined Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, and producer Neal H. Moritz on the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals before attending a midnight screening of The Fast and the Furious at the Grand Théâtre Lumière.
During his emotional introduction ahead of the screening, Diesel fought back tears while acknowledging Meadow’s presence as the living embodiment of the franchise’s core theme of brotherhood.
“The person who was not going to let me come alone here to represent that brotherhood was Meadow Walker,” Diesel said. “I’m gonna go and shed a tear real quick.”
After the film, the pair shared a warm embrace on stage as the audience delivered a four-minute standing ovation. Many cast members, including Rodriguez and Brewster, were visibly moved during the tribute.
Read Also:
Westlife Anniversary World Tour Announces Only Southeast Asia Stadium Show at GBK Jakarta
Diesel, who serves as Meadow’s godfather, also expressed gratitude to longtime fans for their loyalty, revealing that their support has made the upcoming final film — scheduled for 2028 — possible.
“The only reason why we’re making the finale for 2028… It’s because of each and every one of you that has given us your hearts and your loyalty,” he said.
The event carried extra significance as a full-circle moment for the franchise, which has grossed more than $7 billion worldwide. Paul Walker, who portrayed Brian O’Conner, tragically passed away in a car accident in November 2013. Since then, Vin Diesel and the cast have continued to embrace Meadow as part of their extended family. Meadow has since made a cameo appearance in Fast X and actively runs the Paul Walker Foundation.
This Cannes reunion served not only as a nostalgic look back at the beginning of the billion-dollar saga but also as a powerful reminder that, for the Fast family, “it’s about love.”
*(Sources: People Magazine, Deadline Hollywood, Variety & AP News)
