Al Pacino reveals the reason behind donating his 1980’s ‘Cruising’ paycheck

In a candid revelation from his new memoir, Sonny Boy, legendary actor Al Pacino disclosed that he donated his entire paycheck from the 1980 film Cruising due to concerns about the film’s representation of the LGBTQ+ community. The acclaimed actor, now 84, reflected on the film’s impact and its controversies during its production, noting his desire to contribute positively to a community that he felt was exploited by the project.

Al Pacino on donating his paycheck:

Cruising, directed by the late William Friedkin, starred Pacino as a New York City police officer going undercover in the city’s gay bars to track a serial killer targeting gay men. At the time of filming, Pacino was 39 years old and eager to take on challenging roles. However, as production progressed, he became aware of the significant backlash from the LGBTQ+ community. “There were protestors at shooting locations almost every day,” he recalled, expressing concern that the film would not portray the community in a respectful light.

While Pacino initially did not perceive Cruising as exploitative, his perspective shifted after viewing the completed film. Recognizing its shortcomings, he chose to remain silent about the project following its release, refusing to promote it. “I took the money, and it was a lot, and I put it in an irrevocable trust fund,” Pacino wrote. He then donated the funds to various charities, ensuring that the earnings would benefit those in need.

Pacino emphasized his desire for anonymity in his charitable contributions, explaining, “I just wanted one positive thing to come out of that whole experience.” He acknowledged that while the donation may not have eased his conscience completely, it served a greater good by supporting those in need.

Cruising, loosely based on Gerald Walker’s 1970 novel of the same name, featured a notable ensemble cast, including Paul Sorvino, Karen Allen, and Ed O’Neill. The film’s complex themes and controversial portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community have continued to spark discussions over the years, underscoring the importance of representation in media.

Through his actions, Pacino highlights the responsibility that artists have regarding their work’s societal impact. His decision to donate his earnings from Cruising stands as a poignant reminder of the ongoing dialogue about the portrayal of marginalized communities in film and the lasting effects of representation.