People Stunned After Discovering Pope Leo’s Link to Iconic A-List Star
What happened when researchers dug into the past of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope?
They found out that the leader of the Catholic Church shares a family tree with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and music.
His ancestry has sparked excitement online, revealing ties to famous stars and politicians. Keep reading to discover who these celebrities are and why everyone’s talking about it.
A Family Tree Full of Stars
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, became pope on May 8, 2025. Soon after, genealogists uncovered his surprising family connections.
Through a distant ancestor from the 1590s in Quebec, named Louis Boucher de Grandpre, the pope is linked to several well-known figures.
These include pop icons Madonna and Justin Bieber, as well as actress Angelina Jolie and former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
The New York Times, working with experts from American Ancestors and the Cuban Genealogy Club of Miami, traced these connections, showing how one ancestor can tie together people from different worlds.
This discovery has amazed many because it connects a religious leader to pop culture giants.
For example, Madonna, known for her bold music and past disagreements with the Catholic Church, is Pope Leo XIV’s ninth cousin, several times removed.
She even shared the news on her Instagram Story, adding a playful twist to their unexpected bond.
Why the Internet Is Buzzing
Social media has exploded with reactions to Pope Leo XIV’s celebrity connections. People on X have shared their shock and amusement, with one user joking, “Pope Leo and Madonna?
That’s like royalty meeting pop royalty!” Others are curious about how close these relationships are, asking if they’re distant enough to avoid awkward family reunions.
The mix of sacred and celebrity has created a unique buzz, making the pope’s family tree a hot topic.
The connections don’t stop at entertainment. Pope Leo XIV is also related to Canadian Prime Ministers Justin and Pierre Trudeau, and writer Jack Kerouac.
This diverse lineage highlights how family histories can weave together unexpected groups, from politics to poetry to pop music. It’s a reminder that even the most unlikely people might share a common ancestor.
A Pope with a Complex Past
Beyond the celebrity ties, Pope Leo XIV’s ancestry tells a deeper story. His roots include Creole heritage from New Orleans, with ancestors listed as “mulatto” or “free people of color” in historical records.
Some were enslaved, while others owned slaves, showing the complex history of his family. This mix of backgrounds makes Pope Leo XIV’s story uniquely American, reflecting the country’s diverse past.
The excitement around his celebrity connections has brought more attention to Pope Leo XIV’s role as a global leader. As the first American pope, he’s already making history.
His family tree just adds another layer of intrigue, showing how a Chicago-born cardinal can link to both the Vatican and Hollywood.
In a world where pop culture and religion rarely mix, Pope Leo XIV’s family ties are a fascinating bridge.
Whether you’re a fan of Madonna’s music or follow the Catholic Church, this story offers something surprising for everyone. What other secrets might his ancestry hold? Only time will tell.
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