Al Pacino Reveals Who He Thinks Is the Best American Actor — And It’s Not Who You Think

Al Pacino has played some of the most iconic roles in American film history. From The Godfather to Scarface and Dog Day Afternoon, his name is carved into the foundation of modern Hollywood. But while many people see Pacino himself as one of the greatest actors of all time, he once pointed to someone else when asked who truly deserves that title.

In an interview with Playboy back in 1979, Pacino shared his thoughts on the actors he admires most. He mentioned names like Gary Cooper, Charles Laughton, Jack Nicholson, Lee Marvin, and Robert Mitchum. He praised Cooper in particular for his quiet strength, saying, “Gary Cooper was kind of a phenomenon… his ability to take something and elevate it, give it such dignity. One of the great presences.”

But when the question came up about who he believed was the best American actor, Pacino didn’t name Brando, Nicholson, or De Niro. Instead, he gave a more unexpected answer: “Among the post-Brando actors—I call it post-Brando… There are so many fine actors… I don’t know. George C. Scott.”

George C. Scott might not be the first name that comes to mind in everyday movie talk, but he earned huge respect among filmmakers and actors alike. He won an Oscar for his unforgettable role in Patton in 1970 and also gave a wildly memorable performance as General ‘Buck’ Turgidson in Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove. Throughout his career, Scott worked with legendary directors like Paul Schrader, Peter Medak, and Otto Preminger.

Even though Scott doesn’t always get talked about in the same breath as Pacino or Brando, Pacino’s admiration puts a fresh spotlight on the late actor’s legacy. It’s clear that Pacino respected Scott not just for the big roles but for the presence and power he brought to the screen.

In that same conversation, Pacino also shared love for directors like Mel Brooks and Woody Allen. “Mel Brooks will have these flashes in his films; you laugh for hours afterward. I wonder how he is, what he’s like. The same with Woody; I go to see all of his films,” he said.

Pacino’s opinions are a reminder that greatness in acting isn’t just about fame or award, it’s also about presence, range, and the ability to completely own the screen.

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