Three Irish comic talents, Ardal O’Hanlon, Patrick Kielty and Tommy Tiernan, are to have an audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican this coming Friday, June 14th. However, the trio won’t be the only comedic presence; other notable figures such as Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, Conan O’Brien, Chris Rock, Whoopi Goldberg and more will also be in attendance. This international congregation of humorous talent, amounting to more than 100 individuals, is sure to result in some quality humour – and potentially some entertaining egos clashing – within the Vatican’s green room.
One might wonder how certain Irish comedians, who in childlike naivety may have been deemed insulting to Catholicism, may interact with the Pope. However, it’s fair to note that each of the three Irish comedians are recognised for their wit, sensitivity, and subtly in their performances.
Ardal O’Hanlon, best known for his doltish character Father Dougal McGuire on the beloved sitcom Father Ted, has shown his lack of comprehension of Catholic doctrine; his character doesn’t even believe in a higher power. O’Hanlon has also openly expressed his doubts about religion in his personal life; despite rejecting his faith, he still requests Catholic baptisms for his children, causing him to question his hypocrisy. He’s admitted previously in interviews that joining the priesthood once seemed like a viable path for him.
Patrick Kielty, a native of Co Down, assumed the role of host for The Late Late Show the preceding September. His father, Jack Kielty, fell victim to loyalist paramilitaries during his teenage years in 1988. His comedic work frequently explored the confluence of politics and religion in Northern Ireland. In 2018, he crafted a documentary reflecting on his father’s tragic passing, while in 2021 he evaluated Northern Ireland through One Hundred Years of Union. He eagerly supports the eradication of segregated education in Northern Ireland, in hopes of diminishing sectarian and tribal divisions.
Recognised for his praised TV interview show aired on RTÉ and his involvement in Derry Girls, Tiernan made headlines in 1997 with a controversial routine centred on the crucifixion on The Late Late. Accusations of blasphemy flew, though Tiernan dismissed them, protesting he had no anti-Catholic bias and was puzzled at the outrage. Over the years, Tiernan’s routines have grappled with themes of religion and spirituality. He is now open about his devout faith and regularly attends Mass. He once confessed to considering a career in priesthood, but opted instead for a larger family. Firmly rooted in his Catholic faith, he navigates the constant renegotiation of his pro-choice stance, his intellectual independence and heartfelt realities, and his church membership.
Amongst these three, the prospects for deep discussion regarding faith are high. A genuine dialogue with the global leader of the Catholic Church, beyond mere formalities, could prove quite enlightening.
The meeting with the Pope is a joint endeavour between the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education and the Dicastery for Communication. Over 100 entertainers will converge at the Apostolic Palace promptly at 8:30 am on Friday as per the press release, with the intent of fostering a connection between the Catholic Church and comedic artists.
Comics worldwide – with over half hailing from Italy, are not clearly identified whether the comic brilliance is more potent in Italy or it’s merely geographical coincidence. Pope Francis has previously recognised the profound influence of comedy in shaping a more compassionate and understanding society. He expressed his belief during an interaction with artists at the Sistine Chapel last year that the Scriptures themselves are filled with ironic moments, and that he believes entertainers, including performers, creators, illustrators, and authors have “the imagination to conceive alternative renditions of the world,” often utilising irony, which he considers a remarkable virtue.
The forthcoming gathering, as highlighted in the Vatican’s announcement, seeks to “honour the splendour of human diversity,” and to “disseminate a message of peace, affection, and unity.” It “anticipates serving as a moment of noteworthy intercultural exchange and mutual joy and optimism.”
In a press statement, it is noted that Pope Francis “acknowledges the considerable effects that comic art exerts on the realm of contemporary society,” citing the “comic talent and the cohesive power of laughter, providing unique perspectives on human existence and the current historical scenario.”
The Vatican News mentions that in a statement released by the Holy See, it was revealed that Pope Francis shared during an interview with Italian television channel TV2000, he recites a daily prayer in St. Thomas More’s words, requesting the Lord to gift him a sense of humour.