The passing of Pope Francis has touched hearts far beyond the walls of the Vatican.

From Hollywood to Spain and across the world, celebrities who had the chance to meet him are coming forward with moving tributes, personal stories, and heartfelt reflections on his compassion and legacy.

These are more than just celebrity anecdotes — they’re glimpses into how one man’s warmth and humility left a lasting impression on people from all walks of life.

Antonio Banderas Pays Tribute to a Pope Who Led With Mercy

Spanish actor Antonio Banderas, best known for his role as Zorro, took to Instagram to honor the late pontiff, calling him a man who “showed kindness, love, and mercy to the neediest people.”

Banderas, a devout Catholic, recently walked in the Palm Sunday procession in Málaga, Spain, with the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Tears and Favors, where he serves as a steward.

His connection to his faith runs deep, and his message reflected the emotional impact Pope Francis had on him.

Jimmy Fallon Recalls Making the Pope Laugh

Talk show host Jimmy Fallon shared a lighthearted and tender moment with Pope Francis when they met during a gathering of comedians at the Vatican.

Posting a photo from their meeting, Fallon remembered how honored he felt to have made the pope laugh.

“Thank you for your encouraging words. Rest in peace,” he wrote, capturing both reverence and affection for the spiritual leader.

Whoopi Goldberg Remembers a Pope Who Embraced Everyone

Actress and comedian Whoopi Goldberg, who met Pope Francis twice — including at the same comedians’ event — remembered him for his inclusive heart.

She shared how he reminded her that Christ’s love extends to both believers and nonbelievers.

Comparing him to St. John XXIII, she praised him for his “love of humanity and laughter,” painting a picture of a leader whose message transcended religious boundaries.

Leonardo DiCaprio Honors the Pope’s Environmental Legacy

Leonardo DiCaprio reflected on a profound meeting he had with Pope Francis in 2016, describing it as “deeply moving.”

A lifelong environmentalist, DiCaprio admired the pope’s dedication to climate advocacy, particularly his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’.

He called it a “clarion call” for global ecological responsibility, praising Francis as a “transformational leader” whose commitment to the planet was unwavering.

Martin Scorsese Speaks of the Pope’s Humility and Wisdom

Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, another devout Catholic, shared a deeply personal tribute.

Calling Pope Francis “a remarkable human being,” Scorsese reflected on the pontiff’s honesty, goodness, and his constant desire to learn.

“The loss for me runs deep,” he said, adding that while he would miss the pope’s presence, the light Francis left behind “can never be extinguished.”

Jonathan Roumie Shares Gratitude for Meeting a Living Saint

Jonathan Roumie, who portrays Jesus in the hit series The Chosen, had the rare honor of meeting Pope Francis not once, but twice.

He described the encounters as among the greatest privileges of his life.

Roumie was especially moved by the pope’s humility and gentleness — qualities he says shaped the entire papacy.

“You will be missed, Santo Padre,” he wrote. “But now you dwell in that heavenly place.”

David Henrie’s Blessing From Pope Francis Was Followed by a Miracle

Disney star David Henrie shared a deeply personal memory.

When he and his wife met Pope Francis in 2018, they were grieving three miscarriages and seeking a blessing as they hoped to conceive.

The pope took their hands, prayed for them, and gave a special blessing.

Nine months later, their daughter Pia Francesca was born — named partly in honor of the Holy Father. Henrie reflected, “I’ll forever be grateful for that moment.”

The Pope’s Legacy Goes Beyond the Church

For many of these stars, Pope Francis was more than just a religious leader — he was a source of hope, humility, and healing.

Whether it was through laughter, spiritual encouragement, or environmental leadership, his influence touched lives in deeply personal ways.

A Pope Who Made the World Feel a Little Kinder

From actors to comedians, filmmakers to activists, the tributes to Pope Francis have something in common: a sense of having been in the presence of a deeply human and compassionate soul.

His death has left a void, but his example continues to inspire.

As the world prays for his successor, his legacy — of kindness, openness, and courage — will no doubt echo for generations to come.