Pope Leo XIV Hosts Hollywood Stars for Rare Vatican Audience

In an effort to bridge the gap between the Vatican and the film industry, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, is set to welcome a select group of Hollywood stars for an exclusive audience. This rare event, titled ‘Audience of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV with the World of Cinema,’ is part of the Vatican’s Holy Year activities and will take place at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City. The meeting is expected to focus on how cinema can contribute to the Church’s mission and promote human values. Some of the notable attendees include actors like Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, and Spike Lee, along with directors such as Adam Scott. This marks the first time Pope Leo XIV will host an event specifically for Hollywood figures, following a similar gathering led by Pope Francis in 2024, which included comedians like Jimmy Fallon and Whoopi Goldberg. The Vatican has released information about the pope’s connection to cinema, highlighting his favorite films, which include ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ ‘The Sound of Music,’ and ‘Life Is Beautiful.’ The event underscores the Church’s growing interest in engaging with popular culture and exploring its potential for spiritual and societal impact.