One of these projects was Jack and Jill, the 2011 Adam Sandler film that was widely panned by critics (it received a 3% rating on Rotten Tomatoes). In the film, Pacino plays an exaggerated version of himself and stars in a fake Dunkin' Donuts commercial that left audiences shuddering. So why did he do it? Pacino openly admitted, “It came at a time in my life where I needed it because I found out I had no money left.”

Despite the film's failure, Pacino takes everything in stride. And while many fans thought Jack and Jill's Dunkin' Donuts commercial was real, he later clarified, “Do you know how many people think I actually did that commercial?”

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From extravagance to downsizing

Pacino's spending habits were legendary. He spent money on 16 cars, owned 23 cell phones and, at the height of his wealth, maintained a lifestyle that would have cost nearly $900,000 a month in today's dollars. But when his money ran out, he had no choice but to downsize. He sold one of his houses, made commercials for Australian television and even started giving seminars to make ends meet.

His financial recovery took time, but Pacino has found his footing again, thanks in part to his more recent projects. For example, his contract with HBO earned him $10 million per film and he already had three films under his belt. Furthermore, his role in 2019's The Irishman, directed by Martin Scorsese, earned him a handsome paycheck of $20 million.

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A lesson in financial responsibility

Now in his 80s, Pacino admits he's learned some tough lessons when it comes to money management. “Scarface” remains his most lucrative film and the remains of the film still support him to this day. “I can make a living at this, I mean I could if I lived like a normal person,” he wrote with a touch of humor.

But perhaps the most telling part of his story is that even someone as successful as Al Pacino can make mistakes when it comes to money. And while his roles in films like Jack and Jill may not be fondly remembered, they are a reminder that even the greatest actors are not immune to financial challenges.

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This article Al Pacino Went Broke After Spending $50 Million on 16 Cars, 23 Cell Phones and $400,000 on Landscaping: “I Didn't Understand How Money Worked” originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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