Overview

• Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, prompting widespread tributes and global interest in Vatican traditions.
• Streaming analytics firm Luminate reported that 'Conclave,' a 2024 Oscar-winning drama about papal elections, saw viewership rise from 1.8 million to 6.9 million minutes on April 21.
• Netflix’s 'The Two Popes,' which portrays the transition of power between Benedict XVI and Francis, experienced a 417% spike in streaming minutes on the same day.
• The real-life papal conclave to elect Francis' successor is scheduled to take place from May 6–11, following his funeral on April 26 in St. Peter’s Square.
• Experts and audiences note the parallels between the cinematic depictions of conclaves and the actual solemn yet secretive voting process within the Sistine Chapel.