“Vin was in a very sensitive place”: Hit Marvel Movie Helped Vin Diesel Heal After the Death of His Fast and Furious Co-star Paul Walker

Vin Diesel has consistently occupied the pivotal role in the Fast and Furious saga across numerous installments. However, there was a moment when the actor foresaw Furious 7 as the unquestionably standout cornerstone of this blockbuster franchise.

Vin Diesel and Paul Walker in ‘The Fast And The Furious’

Following the unforeseen passing of Paul Walker, the filming process for the remaining scenes of Furious 7 became an arduous undertaking for Vin Diesel and the ensemble. With a substantial portion of Furious 7 already in the can prior to Walker’s tragic accident, his conspicuous absence imbued the project with a profound significance that extended beyond a mere film, affecting everyone involved, including Diesel.

Guardians Of The Galaxy Helped Vin Diesel Move On

Vin Diesel’s involvement in mega-franchises extends beyond the Fast and Furious series. He has successfully carved out a place in the Marvel universe by lending his voice to the character Groot in Guardians of the Galaxy. This cinematic endeavor arrived at a most opportune juncture for Diesel, offering solace and support as he coped with the loss of his co-star, Paul Walker.

“That was healing for me. To play a character that could reincarnate, rejuvenate and represent life as trees do.”

Paul Walker and Vin Diesel

The director of the film, James Gunn, observed how playing the character Groot must have served as a profound source of solace for the grieving star.

“Vin was in a very sensitive place. It was not long after Paul passed away. I think the simplicity of Groot, the innocence of Groot and the creativity of Groot was a big relief for Vin.”

Diesel also recollected one of his final conversations with Walker, which broached the topic of mortality. He emphasized that action films carried a significant element of peril, acknowledging that these risks might ultimately result in his own demise.

Vin Diesel Wants Robert Downey Jr. In Fast 11

Continuously drawing Hollywood’s top-tier talent into his expanding franchise, Vin Diesel is presently on the lookout for the billionaire philanthropist known as Iron Man. After the resounding commercial triumph of his latest installment, Fast X, Diesel has voiced his aspirations to further enrich his ensemble with prominent figures. Most notably, his recent addition is the 58-year-old Hollywood luminary, Robert Downey Jr.

Marvel star, Robert Downey Jr.

Whether Robert Downey Jr. would entertain the notion of reentering the realm of blockbuster action-adventure films is a separate conversation altogether. However, at this moment, it’s hard not to be captivated by Vin Diesel’s vision of casting the Iron Man actor. During the trailer unveiling of his latest film, Fast X, Diesel didn’t hesitate to invoke Downey Jr.’s name when asked about his “dream casting” for upcoming Fast and Furious chapters.

While keeping most details about Robert Downey Jr.’s prospective role under wraps, pending his acceptance, Vin Diesel deliberates on the character he could suggest for the 58-year-old actor. Alluding to the possibility of a villainous character, Diesel hinted at the prospect of extending an offer for Downey Jr. to take on the role of an antihero.

Furious 7 is available for streaming on Peacock.