On April 21, 2025, the news broke that Pope Francis had passed away aged 88 and instantly tributes poured in from around the globe.
King Charles III was one leaders to release a message following his death. He had recently visited the pope along with his wife, Queen Camilla. In his statement, Charles remarked: “His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others. His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world. Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”
King Frederik of Denmark also sent a letter of condolences to the Dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re (who will preside over the papal conclave). In his letter, he wrote, ” We have fond memories from our meeting with His Holiness in 2018 at the Vatican. We will remember him as a Pope dedicated to promoting peace, justice, and always advocating for people living in vulnerable situations.”
Australian leaders were also among the first to pay their respects.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote in a statement: “Pope Francis’ compassion embraced all humanity. He urged us to remember all we hold in common and asked the world to hear the ‘cry of the earth’, our common home…Pope Francis’s love for humanity was powerful and profound. The memory and example of his compassion will long endure.”
Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton, wrote that Pope Francis “was driven by Christ’s values of mercy and forgiveness.”
Governor General, Sam Mostyn, said, “As millions of Australian Catholics mourn a spiritual guide, father and friend, we can all reflect on His Holiness’ message of peace; of respect for the rights and dignity of every member of our human family; and care for the Earth, our common home…Today, as Pope Francis is honoured at Masses and in private prayer across Australia and the world, may the memory of His Holiness’ mission of peace, compassion and love bring hope and consolation long into the future.”
Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio recalled his 2016 meeting with Pope Francis during the filming of his climate change documentary, Before The Flood. In his tribute to the Pontiff, Leo praised the Pope for his environmental activism and called for urgent global action against climate change: “Pope Francis was one of the most extraordinary spiritual leaders of our time. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of environmentalists around the world. May he rest in peace.”
Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and AACTA Award(s) winning actress Toni Collette shared the news of his passing to her Instagram story with a caption: “he was a good one”.
Bridgerton actress Adjoa Andoh wrote on Instagram: “Within the constraints of his tradition, manifestly compassionate and standing with the marginalised. What a loss.”
Spanish actor, Antonio Banderas, remembered the Pope’s legacy for benevolence in his tribute, writing, “Pope Francisco has died — a man who, at the head of the Catholic Church, showed kindness, love, and mercy to the neediest people.”
Sister Act star and EGOT winner, Whoopi Goldberg, also took to Instagram to share a tribute to Pope Francis. She said, “He was the closest in a long time that seemed to remember that Christ’s love enveloped believer and non-believer [sic]”.
Desperate Housewife star, Eva Longoria, also took to Instagram and wrote, “Rest in Peace, Your Holiness Pope Francis. Thank you for being an ally to many of us and speaking up for the marginalized. Your compassion, kindness and humility will always be remembered.”
