Francis Ford Coppola Hospitalized at Tor Vergata Polyclinic in Rome
Rome, August 5, 2025 – Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, renowned for masterpieces like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, was hospitalized at the Policlinico Tor Vergata in Rome on Tuesday morning for a scheduled cardiac ablation procedure. According to sources cited by ANSA, the 86-year-old director experienced atrial fibrillation, likely triggered by the physical stress of a recent transcontinental flight, prompting close monitoring before the planned heart surgery.
Coppola, a five-time Academy Award winner, had been in Italy to scout locations for a new film project set to begin production in autumn. Just weeks ago, he attended the Magna Graecia Film Festival in Calabria to promote his latest work, Megalopolis, a $120 million self-financed epic presented at Cannes in 2024. On August 1, he was in San Francisco for a screening of the film, engaging with audiences about its themes of a modern America mirroring ancient Rome’s decline. His recent travels and public appearances underscore his active schedule, despite his age and health challenges.
Details about Coppola’s current condition remain limited, with the hospital and his entourage maintaining strict confidentiality. The atrial fibrillation, described as mild, required observation to stabilize his condition before the cardiac procedure. The Policlinico Tor Vergata, a leading medical facility in Rome, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for such interventions.
Coppola’s deep ties to Italy, particularly Basilicata, where his grandfather Agostino emigrated from Bernalda, have long influenced his personal and professional life. An honorary citizen of Bernalda since 1989, he owns a boutique hotel there and frequently vacations in the region. His recent activities in Italy, including receiving Rome’s Capitoline Wolf statue and having a street named in his honor on October 15, 2024, reflect his enduring connection to the country.
Sentiment on X is sparse but expresses concern and support, with users wishing the director a swift recovery while noting his recent vigor at public events. As Coppola prepares for his next cinematic venture and the upcoming Venice Film Festival premiere of Megadoc, a documentary about Megalopolis, the film community awaits updates on his health.
Sources: ANSA, La Stampa, TGCOM24, Il Messaggero, Leggo, Corriere della Calabria, Gaiaitalia.com Notizie Roma