Asger Risom
Scorsese, Bocelli, Goldberg, and others honor the late pontiff’s legacy of compassion and humility
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From Hollywood to the Vatican, tributes continue to pour in following the death of Pope Francis, whose humility and advocacy for the marginalized inspired public figures across the globe.
Artists, actors, and musicians have shared heartfelt messages reflecting on his profound impact.
Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, who described Pope Francis as “a supreme champion of peace,” said the pontiff’s leadership had been a “source of hope and inspiration.”
He shared a photo of himself kissing the pope’s hand, calling it one of the greatest honors of his life.
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Tributes from the Arts
Filmmaker Martin Scorsese, a frequent Vatican visitor, reflected on his relationship with the late pope in a statement to Variety: “He radiated wisdom and kindness. He never stopped learning. And he practiced universal, constant forgiveness.” Scorsese added, “He left behind a light that can never be extinguished.”
Whoopi Goldberg echoed that sentiment, writing that Francis “came the closest, in a long time, to reminding us that the love of Jesus Christ wraps around believers and non-believers alike.”
Singer Gloria Estefan praised the pope’s courage in “opening hearts and minds,” while Eva Longoria honored his “compassion, kindness, and humility,” sharing personal photos from a Vatican visit.
Colombian artist J. Balvin posted a smiling photo with the pope, captioned simply, “Rest in peace.” Actor Russell Crowe, writing from Rome, called it “a beautiful day, but a sad one for believers.” Antonio Banderas noted Francis’ “goodness, love, and mercy,” while Laura Pausini shared a symbolic image of the pope holding a dove with the phrase: “Have the courage to be happy.”
A Personal Farewell
Even television host Jimmy Fallon joined the chorus, recalling a moment when he made the pope laugh: “Thank you for your encouraging words. Rest in peace.” Sylvester Stallone and Georgina Rodríguez also offered parting words, with Rodríguez quoting Francis: “When women lead, things go better.”
As reported by Digi24, the response from global celebrities underscores just how widely Pope Francis touched lives—far beyond the walls of the Vatican.
