John Goodman has expressed his enduring admiration for fellow actor Al Pacino as they prepare to celebrate their storied collaborations in the film industry. At the Los Angeles premiere of Goodman’s new film *Digger* on 28 September, the actor reflected on the impact Pacino has had on his career and artistry.
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Goodman, 74, took a moment to discuss his experiences and the friendships he has forged throughout his time in Hollywood, focusing particularly on his admiration for Pacino, who is 86. The two actors previously starred together in the 1989 crime thriller *Sea of Love*, where they played New York City police officers. They later reunited for HBO’s 2010 film *You Don’t Know Jack*, showcasing their professional compatibility and shared artistic vision.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Goodman described working with Pacino as “a dream come true,” highlighting the inspiration he has drawn from him over the years. “I love Al so much,” Goodman remarked, adding that it was gratifying to see Pacino again. This sentiment underlines the camaraderie and mutual respect that can develop between actors who share the screen and collaborate across different projects.
During the event, Goodman also mentioned his recent collaboration with Tom Cruise in *Digger*, set to hit theatres on 2 October. In this dark comedy-satire, Goodman portrays the President of the United States while Cruise plays an oil tycoon attempting to save the Earth in the wake of a natural disaster. Discussing Cruise’s work ethic, Goodman praised him for his dedication, noting that he would arrive on set before anyone else and fully immerse himself in the filmmaking process.
“He lives his life on the set,” Goodman shared, commending Cruise for the enthusiasm he brings to his role that greatly influences the atmosphere of the production. “He’s very encouraging,” Goodman disclosed, emphasising Cruise’s warmth and passion for acting, qualities that make the collaborative experience enjoyable.
The upcoming film *Digger* marks Goodman’s second release of the year, following *Chili Finger*, which premiered at the 2026 SXSW festival. Before this year, Goodman was known for his voice roles in popular films such as *Smurfs* and *Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain*. With such a steady output, Goodman’s presence continues to be a significant influence within the film industry.
Looking ahead, Goodman expressed a desire to work again with fellow actors he admires, sharing his hope to reunite with Jeff Bridges and the Coen brothers for another project sometime in the future. Goodman and Bridges previously starred together in the cult classic *The Big Lebowski*, a film that has left a lasting mark on popular culture.
As Goodman continues to explore diverse roles, his career reflects a dedication to both his craft and the collaborative relationships he values. With the release of *Digger* imminent, audiences can anticipate another compelling performance from an actor who is both revered for his talent and respected for his humility.
In conclusion, Goodman’s reflections at the premiere underscore the importance of collaboration in the film industry, exemplified by his relationships with Pacino and Cruise. As he looks to the future, fans can only hope to see more from this seasoned actor, whose journey through film continues to inspire.