Pope Leo’s Lineage Traced to These Huge Pop Stars
The leader of the Catholic Church might have a hidden talent: belting pop ballads.

ALBERTO PIZZOLI/Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images
Pope Leo XIV, who was chosen as pontiff in early May, is actually related to Madonna and Justin Bieber, TMZ reports. But he doesn’t just share a bloodline with the “Like a Prayer” singer and the Biebs. The first American Pope is also related to actress Angelina Jolie and former first lady Hillary Clinton, along with former Canadian prime ministers Justin and Pierre Trudeau. Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, Leo was elected sovereign of the Vatican on May 8, 2025. The election took place during the papal conclave on the second day, when white smoke from the Sistine Chapel emerged to inform the public of the next religious ruler. Leo has two older brothers: John Joseph and Louis Martín. While they remain in God’s good graces, his distant cousin Madonna might need to start buttering up. The pop-star has staged some controversial performances, like a mock crucifixion, and drawn backlash from the world’s most devout. Madonna claimed that she was “excommunicated” from the Church three times, although the Church has never formally confirmed this. If it’s true, maybe Leo will give her a helping hand.
Register below to read this article for free or subscribe
to unlock unlimited access to The Daily Beast.
Monthly
$1
First month then $5.99/month
Annual
$35
First year then $59.99/year
Premium
$79
First year then $119.99/year
*Substack access provided by the next business day, using your subscription email. Choosing the Premium plan constitutes your permission to share your subscription email with Substack and your agreement to Substack’s Privacy Policy.
Already have an account? Sign In
Looks like you already have a subscription!
You're all set!
Thanks for subscribing.