Visibly moved, the actor remembered his friend and co-star Paul Walker, who passed away in 2013 in a car accident at the age of 40.
After receiving a standing ovation from the audience, Diesel wiped away tears as he dedicated some words to the actor. "I pray that in your life you can have a brother like Paul," he expressed to the attendees, in a speech full of emotion and nostalgia.
The actor also had some special words for Meadow Walker, Paul Walker's daughter and Vin Diesel's goddaughter. "Meadow has been a great source of strength, and I know he would be very proud of you. I will love you forever," he stated before embracing her on stage.
Actresses Jordana Brewster and Michelle Rodriguez, co-stars in the franchise, also participated in the tribute, offering messages of support and affection during the emotional event held in Cannes.