**Al Pacino Reflects on Near Dismissal from "The Godfather" in New Memoir**

Al Pacino has revealed a surprising moment of vulnerability from the early days of his career in his new memoir, "Sonny Boy." While filming Francis Ford Coppola's legendary film "The Godfather," Pacino experienced an ankle injury that almost led to his dismissal from the iconic role of Michael Corleone. Surprisingly, the actor confesses he was relieved at the prospect of being fired.

During production, Pacino was under immense pressure, as the studio was hesitant about his fit for playing the mobster Michael Corleone. In the memoir, an excerpt published by The Guardian shows Pacino sharing his unease on set. “There was a discomfort among people, even the crew, when I was working. I was very conscious of that," he writes. A rumor circulating that Pacino and Coppola might be let go only heightened his anxiety.

One evening, Coppola took Pacino aside and confessed that doubts about his performance had arisen. After reviewing the filmed scenes, even Pacino could see the lack of magic. However, a pivotal moment came when a key scene, where Michael exacts revenge in an Italian restaurant, was moved up in the filming schedule. This was Pacino's chance to prove himself, but things went awry during a stunt. Pacino injured his ankle while attempting to jump on a moving car, worsening his situation.

“I had twisted my ankle so badly that I couldn't move," Pacino recalls. Surrounded by the concerned crew, the actor entertained thoughts of relief. He believed his injury might spell the end of his stressful involvement in the project. "I lay there thinking, This is a miracle. Oh God, you're saving me. I don't have to do this picture anymore," he reflects in his book.

Much to Pacino's surprise, the restaurant scene not only secured his place in the film but also transformed his career. The stunning performance convinced the studio that he was indeed the right actor for the role. "Because of that scene I just performed, they kept me in the film. So I didn't get fired from 'The Godfather,'" he elaborates.

Pacino's portrayal of Michael Corleone earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, and he continued to grace the sequels "The Godfather Part II" and "The Godfather Part III." "Sonny Boy" is now available, offering fans an intimate look into one of Hollywood's greatest actors and the challenges he faced during a critical point in his career.