As news of Pope Francis’ passing reverberates around the world, not just religious leaders, but also celebrities who had the privilege of meeting him, are sharing heartfelt tributes to the 266th pontiff. Known for his dedication to serving the Lord and his church, the Argentinian-born pope, who took the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, as confirmed by the Vatican.
Among those who expressed their sorrow at the loss of Pope Francis are well-known figures from the entertainment industry like Jimmy Fallon, Whoopi Goldberg, Antonio Banderas, Eva Longoria, and Martin Scorsese. These celebrities, each in their unique way, remembered the pontiff for his service, inclusivity, and spirit throughout his 12-year papacy.
Actress Eva Longoria took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to Pope Francis, posting a photo of her and husband José Bastón holding hands with the pontiff. Longoria described the late pope as an ally to many and thanked him for speaking up for the marginalized, highlighting his compassion, kindness, and humility that will always be remembered.
Antonio Banderas, another actor who met Pope Francis, also mourned his passing on Instagram, emphasizing the pope’s kindness, love, and mercy toward the neediest people. Banderas’s message was a bilingual homage to the pontiff, reflecting the global impact of Pope Francis’s message.
Whoopi Goldberg, known for her role on “The View,” remembered Pope Francis with admiration for his inclusivity and love for humanity. Goldberg’s post on Instagram celebrated the late pope’s embodiment of Christ’s love for believers and non-believers alike, likening him to Pope John XXIII in making belief real. Goldberg’s words were a heartfelt tribute to a man who touched lives beyond religious boundaries.
Comedian and talk show host Jimmy Fallon shared a photo of himself shaking hands with Pope Francis, expressing his gratitude for the encounter last summer. Fallon recalled the pope’s encouraging words and the joy of making him laugh, ending his tribute with a wish for the pontiff to rest in peace. The image of Fallon and Pope Francis captured a moment of connection and shared laughter between two individuals from different worlds.
Director Martin Scorsese, in a statement to ABC News, reflected on the profound impact of Pope Francis’s teachings and actions. Scorsese praised the pope for his wisdom, goodness, and unwavering commitment to the greater good, emphasizing his dedication to learning and spreading forgiveness. The loss of Pope Francis, according to Scorsese, is a deep one, leaving behind a legacy of light that will continue to shine.
As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, these celebrities’ tributes offer a glimpse into the personal connections and profound impact the pontiff had on those beyond the realm of the church. From acts of kindness to moments of laughter, Pope Francis touched hearts and minds in ways that transcended borders and beliefs. His legacy lives on in the memories and reflections of those who had the honor of meeting him, a testament to the enduring power of his spirit and message.
