Nobody wanted me to play Michael Corleone in The Godfather: Al Pacino

LONDON (Web Desk) – Hollywood superstar Al Pacino has revealed that nobody other than director Francis Ford Coppola had faith that he could carry off Michael Corleone's role in The Godfather.

"Michael Corleone in The Godfather was and still is the most difficult role I’ve played. I didn’t see him as a gangster; I felt his power was his enigmatic quality. Unfortunately the studio couldn’t see that at first and were thinking of firing me. It was during my early career, a major movie with Marlon Brando, and no one other than Francis [Ford Coppola] wanted me for the part," he said in an interview with Guardian.

About his 'legendary' rivalry with Robert De Niro, the Scarface actor said it was in people's minds. "I know Bobby pretty well. He’s a friend and he and I have gone through similar things. I love what he does with comedy; it’s pure genius."

Al Pacino said money has never been his prerogative as he is not materialistic. "There were times when I was young when I could have used money: after college I was often unemployed and at one time I slept in a storefront for a few days. But I've never been materialistic. Except that I am, of course, because my lifestyle makes me a spender!" he said.

The Godfather star said his grandfather James Gerardi taught him the importance of a work. "He was a plasterer and work – any kind of work – was the joy of his life. So I grew up wanting to – it's what I've always chased. The joy of work is what keeps me going," he added.