Leonardo DiCaprio, the renowned actor and environmental advocate, has expressed profound respect and admiration for the late Pope Francis. DiCaprio praised the pontiff, originally Jorge Mario Bergoglio, as “one of the most extraordinary spiritual leaders of our time.” Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 due to a stroke compounded by heart failure.
DiCaprio’s tribute to Pope Francis was heartfelt and poignant. He shared his sentiments on social media, highlighting the pope’s remarkable role not only within the Catholic Church but also in promoting environmental awareness and reform. The actor noted Pope Francis’s significant contributions to environmental stewardship, particularly through his 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’. This initiative called for a fundamental change in how humanity interacts with the Earth, urging individuals and leaders worldwide to prioritize the health of our planet.
The Revenant star recounted his personal experience meeting with Pope Francis prior to the production of his 2016 climate change documentary, Before the Flood. DiCaprio described this meeting as “enlightening, deeply moving, and thought-provoking,” underscoring the pope’s dedication to addressing urgent environmental issues.
In 2023, Pope Francis expanded on his environmental advocacy with Laudate Deum: Apostolic Exhortation on the Climate Crisis. In this work, he reinforced the need for immediate and decisive action against climate change, emphasizing that humanity must view itself as part of nature rather than separate from it. This perspective was a cornerstone of his environmental teachings.
Pope Francis faced health challenges, including double pneumonia and bronchitis, in recent months. The plans for his funeral include a nine-day mourning period, with the date to be set by cardinals, occurring four to six days after his passing.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s tribute speaks to the enduring influence of Pope Francis on individuals committed to environmental preservation. As a revered figure in both the spiritual and global ecological community, the pope’s legacy is set to inspire future generations. His call for unity and conscientious care of “our common home” remains as impactful as ever. In DiCaprio’s words, Pope Francis’s timeless contributions will continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance. May he rest in peace.
