Washington, April 28 -- At the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony, veteran actor Robert De Niro expressed his gratitude to Francis Ford Coppola for not casting him in the original 'The Godfather' film.

De Niro's role in 'The Godfather Part II' ultimately earned him his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

During the gala at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, De Niro said, "Francis, thank you for not casting me in The Godfather. It was the best job I ever, never got. And it meant I was available for The Godfather Part II," as quoted by Deadline.

De Niro's portrayal of young Vito Corleone in the sequel was a breakout performance that changed his career.

Al Pacino, who starred alongside De Niro in the 'Godfather' franchise, also paid t...