New Pope Just Dropped: People Share Hilarious Reactions to First American Being Elected

We got a new pope before 'GTA VI.' Plus, he's American.

May 8, 2025

Smoke rises from a chimney on a building rooftop against a clear blue sky, with sunlight creating a glowing effect.

Image via Getty/TIZIANA FABI/AFP

Yes, that was white smoke billowing out of the Sistine Chapel chimney on Thursday, which means a new pope has been elected following the death of Pope Francis in April.

Even for those of us who aren’t exactly religion-focused people in our day-to-day lives, it’s hard to deny the power of the theatrics present whenever this process is carried out. The sheer aesthetic beauty of it all is a key part of why last year’s Conclave, starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, was a bonafide critical and commercial success. In short, if you make something look cool enough, people will pay (a lot of) attention.

Below, we take a closer look at the latest on the pope front.

Who is the new pope?

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, has been elected to serve as the 267th Pope. As announced Thursday, he has taken on the name Pope Leo XIV. Ahead of the decision being made final, speculation was rampant that Prevost was a top contender, with a New York Times quote from a priest billing him as a “dignified middle of the road” option. Leo is the first-ever American pope.

How long did Pope Francis serve?

Francis, who made history as the first Jesuit pope, stepped into the role in March 2013. He died in April at the age of 88, notably on Easter Monday.

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, said at the time. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and most marginalized. With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God."

How is the world reacting to news of a new pope?

Given the gravity of the moment, responses from the general public took on a somber and decidedly serious tone. Just kidding. Get in on the tomfoolery below.