Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary filmmaker known for classics such as *The Godfather*, has reassured fans about his health following a non-emergency medical procedure in Rome, Italy. The 86-year-old director confirmed he is “fine” after addressing concerns that he had experienced an emergency heart scare during his visit to the city.
A spokesperson for Coppola clarified that he underwent a scheduled procedure with his long-time physician, Dr. Andrea Natale. The representative stated, “Mr. Coppola went in for a scheduled update procedure with acclaimed Dr. Natale, his doctor of over 30 years, and is resting nicely. All is well.” They emphasized that the visit was not urgent, noting that he arrived at the hospital in a car.
In an Instagram post, Coppola provided further details about his health. He explained that the procedure was an update related to a previous treatment for atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm. “Da Dada (what my kids call me) is fine, taking an opportunity while in Rome to do the update of my 30-year-old afib procedure with its inventor, a great Italian doctor – Dr. Andrea Natale! I am well!” he wrote, addressing his followers directly.
Coppola Reflects on Life and Loss
While promoting his upcoming film *Megalopolis*, set for release in 2024, Coppola has been open about personal challenges, including the loss of his wife, Eleanor, who passed away last year. During a special screening in San Francisco on August 1, he shared poignant reflections on mortality.
According to SFGATE, Coppola remarked, “I lost my wife a year ago, around this time. But my attitude for death is that I always lived my life so that when I was at the moment approaching death, I wouldn’t say: ‘Oh, I wish I had done this and I wish I had done that.’” He added, “Instead I say to myself: ‘I got to do this. I got to see my daughter win an Oscar. I got to see my father win an Oscar.’”
Coppola illustrated his perspective on death with a metaphor, saying, “When I die, I’m not going to notice it. You know how your electric toothbrush just shuts off when you least expect it? That’s what death is like.”
As he continues his promotional tour, Coppola remains a figure of resilience, demonstrating a commitment to both his health and his craft.
