Vin Diesel had one very special reason for showing up to celebrate 25 years of “The Fast and the Furious.”
The actor reunited with franchise stars Michelle Rodriguez and Jordana Brewster in Los Angeles on Monday, Aug. 17 for a special screening marking the action movie’s anniversary. Paul Walker’s daughter, Meadow Walker, was also in attendance, making the night especially emotional for Diesel.
Walker, who died in a car crash in November 2013, was 40. His friendship with Diesel became one of the defining relationships behind the franchise, and Diesel has continued to consider Walker’s daughter part of his family.
Diesel’s Touching Comments
“It means everything,” Diesel told Entertainment Tonight about seeing Meadow at the event. “Because I don’t know if I could have come to the red carpet.”
Diesel reflected on attending the original premiere 25 years ago alongside Walker, whom he affectionately called “Pablo.”
“I don’t know if the absence … I would have been able to survive,” he said.
Having Meadow there helped make the anniversary celebration possible for Diesel.
“And Meadow adds a grace,” he continued.
Diesel went on to describe the close relationship Meadow has developed with his family over the years.
“She’s the first one to ever call me on Father’s Day. She’s the first one to show up to all the kids’ birthdays,” he said. “She’s just such a blessing and I’m so grateful to have her in my family’s life.”
He also called Meadow “a true cousin to my angels” before adding, “I would die for her.”
The emotional moment continued inside the theater, where Diesel spoke about Meadow’s connection to his children. He said seeing her spend time with his family is especially meaningful because of how excited his children become when she visits.
“I have to share with you that Meadow Walker is in the audience,” Diesel said during his speech. “And outside, they were saying, ‘What’s it feel like to have Meadow Walker as part of the Fast family?’ And I said, ‘You have no idea how amazing it is to have Meadow Walker part of my Diesel family when she’s over for holidays, when I can see my children light up with these huge smiles every time she’s at the house.’”
Diesel Named His Daughter after Walker
Diesel also mentioned seeing Meadow with his 11-year-old daughter, Pauline, who was named after Walker.
The “Fast & Furious” star finished his speech by remembering the friendship that began when the original movie was released.
“I just want to say, 25 years ago I was sitting in this room, and I was sitting with Paul Walker,” Diesel said. “I said it before. I’ll say it again. If any of you should ever have a blessing to have a brother like Pablo, it is the greatest gift God could bestow upon you.”
Walker’s legacy remains closely tied to the franchise. His character, Brian O’Conner, has continued to be referenced in the movies following his death, including through archival footage and mentions of his life.
Meadow also appeared in a cameo in 2023’s “Fast X,” further connecting her to the franchise her father helped make famous.
For Diesel, however, Meadow’s presence represents something deeper than the “Fast & Furious” family.
“She’s just such a blessing,” he said.
