Pope Leo is bringing a little Hollywood to the Vatican. The pontiff, born in Chicago, has now invited a wide range of actors and filmmakers to a special audience. The event will take place at the Apostolic Palace on November 15, 2025.
The part of the events is included in the Church’s Holy Year. The guest list of Hollywood stars includes award winners, working actors, and celebrated directors. This is a sign that the new Pope is attempting to engage with the film world.
Pope Leo set to invite Hollywood stars to the Vatican
The upcoming event in the Vatican is being organized by the Culture Office and headed by Pope Leo. The roster of Hollywood stars includes names such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Monica Bellucci, and Adam Scott, among others. As for the filmmakers’ lineup, the event will feature Spike Lee, George Miller, and Gus Van Sant, along with additional directors and industry figures.
The Vatican and Pope Leo have framed this visit as an opportunity for exchange and dialogue. While announcing the event, they quoted Pope’s wish to “deepen dialogue with the World of Cinema… exploring the possibilities that artistic creativity offers to the mission of the Church and the promotion of human values.”
Pope Leo is not new to hosting figures from the arts world at The Vatican. Recently, he had a visit from actor Robert DeNiro as well as his family. The actor said (via CNN), “He’s a good guy. … I was very, very happy to meet him. My grandson, who died of an overdose a little over two years ago, his name was Leo. So my daughter gave him his card, and it was just a nice moment, very special.”
Previously, the Vatican has also shared a short video of the Pope naming his four favorite films. The list includes It’s a Wonderful Life, The Sound of Music, Ordinary People, and Life Is Beautiful.
