New pope engaged in Wordle and viewed ‘Conclave’ prior to his election.

In a fascinating intersection of life and art, Robert Prevost’s recent ascension to the papacy as Pope Leo XIV follows a noteworthy cinematic experience. Days prior to his election as the first American pope to lead the Catholic Church, Prevost viewed the film “Conclave,” a political thriller that explores the complexities surrounding the papal election process.

The Chicago native, who officially adopted the name Pope Leo XIV after being named pontiff on May 9, 2025, shared with his brother John shortly before the conclave that he had watched the critically acclaimed movie. John Prevost, a U.S. Navy veteran, recalls lightheartedly inquiring if his brother had watched the film to prepare for the solemnity of the papal election. Robert, at 69 years old, confirmed that he had engaged with the narrative, perhaps as a means to momentarily distract himself from the gravity of his imminent responsibilities.

John Prevost emphasized that he sought to alleviate his brother’s pre-conclave anxiety by sharing a laugh about the situation. He mentioned their interaction on the eve of the conclave while highlighting that they often played games like Wordle and Words with Friends—a shared pastime that further helped keep things light in the face of such a monumental event.

Despite being considered a frontrunner for the papacy following the death of Pope Francis in April 2025, both brothers had initially viewed the prospect of Robert’s election as unlikely. John Prevost candidly remarked that neither he nor Robert truly anticipated the event, with the prevailing sentiment that a U.S. citizen could not ascend to the position of pope. The long-standing tradition within the Vatican has often viewed the papacy as reserved for candidates originating primarily from Europe, thus making Robert Prevost’s election a historic moment in the Church.

The film “Conclave,” which has drawn considerable attention, features notable actors including Ralph Fiennes as a cardinal overseeing the election process and other prominent figures such as Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow. The movie has struck a chord with several cardinals involved in the electoral process; sources indicate that a number of them turned to the film for insights or guidance as they prepared for the conclave. In fact, some clerics reportedly opted to view the film in theaters, demonstrating its resonance within the ecclesiastical community.

“Conclave” received critical acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, among eight nominations at this year’s Oscars, affirming its compelling portrayal of the often secretive and consequential nature of papal elections. The unprecedented perspective offered by Pope Leo XIV, combined with the cultural touchstone of cinema, underscores a transformative moment for the Catholic Church in an evolving world.

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