Pope Leo XIV Extends an Invitation to Hollywood Stars at the Vatican

Sun Nov 16 2025 15:03:39 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

During a groundbreaking audience with luminaries from the film industry, Pope Leo XIV encourages actors and filmmakers to use their platforms to inspire hope and address global challenges.

Pope Leo XIV welcomed notable Hollywood figures such as Cate Blanchett and Viggo Mortensen to the Vatican, urging them to be 'pilgrims of the imagination' and utilize their art to bring awareness to critical social issues. The Pope emphasized the declining state of cinema and the importance of storytelling that acknowledges societal wounds, reflecting a shift in the Vatican's engagement with broader cultural conversations.

Pope Leo XIV held an audience with Hollywood stars, including Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, and Monica Bellucci, encouraging them to continue their roles as 'pilgrims of the imagination' in their artistic endeavors to foster hope.

This star-studded gathering marked a significant moment for the relatively new pope, and highlighted the Catholic Church's intent to connect with contemporary cultural sentiments.

In a poignant move to support the global film industry, Pope Leo expressed concerns over the 'troubling decline' of cinema attendance. Celebrated director Spike Lee characterized the event as 'a great day' for the relationship between faith and film.

Speaking beneath the stunning frescoes of the Clementine Hall, the Pope lauded the power of cinema as both entertainment and education, but urged filmmakers to confront the 'world's wounds.' He stated, 'Violence, poverty, exile, loneliness, addiction and forgotten wars are issues that need to be acknowledged and narrated,' affirming that truly impactful cinema explores these themes rather than exploits them.

Pope Leo's approach, markedly more reserved compared to his predecessor, Francis, presents a nuanced engagement with contemporary issues. While some Catholic observers have noted a slow start in defining his papacy, this gathering signifies a fresh, cultural connection.

The audience featured a diverse array of filmmakers from around the globe. The Pope's remarks defending the cinematic arts resonated amid pressures on the film industry, particularly following recent labor actions in Hollywood.

Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, as Blanchett reflected on the Pope's call for inspiration, gifting him a bracelet symbolizing solidarity with displaced individuals. Meanwhile, Lee presented him with a unique jersey honoring his papacy.

Ultimately, the Pope's message highlighted the vital role of cinema in community and culture, urging its defenders to resist the urge to retreat amidst challenges.