Brian Holdom, who looks like Pope Francis, gained attention but says he has never actually been hired as the Pope.
He has spent two decades in the lookalike industry, portraying iconic figures at events and parties.
But despite his striking resemblance to Pope Francis, this seasoned impersonator has never once been hired to play the Pope.
Brian Holdom built a lookalike career portraying famous historical
At 78, Brian Holdom has a portfolio of impersonations that includes Henry VIII, Winston Churchill, and Blofeld from James Bond.
He’s performed these characters across the UK.
Beyond that, he also appeared at corporate events, weddings, and theatrical performances.
Before donning costumes, Brian worked in sales and marketing. A friend once told him he resembled actor Donald Pleasence, sparking his transition into the lookalike business.
Eventually, he embraced the character of Blofeld, building a persona from years of mistaken identity.
Corporate events rarely request a Pope impersonator
Brian says that while he’s had inquiries over the years, none of them turned into actual bookings.
Most Pope-related requests were for documentaries or film extras, not the parties and corporate gigs he’s best known for.
‘There hasn’t been much call for the Pope at corporate events and parties, which is what I do the most, the enquiries for the Pope were usually for long shots for films and documentaries.’ He explained.
The death of Pope Francis doesn’t impact Brian’s work
With the recent passing of Pope Francis, some might wonder whether Brian’s lookalike offering would change. But since he’s never performed as a Pope impersonator, it hasn’t affected his business.
Brian points out this is the first time a figure he’s portrayed has passed during his lifetime as a lookalike. His other real-life personas, like Churchill and Henry VIII, died long before his career began.
Churchill and Blofeld remain his most requested characters
Brian notes that Blofeld remains his most booked character, followed closely by Churchill and Henry VIII.
Yet, over time, he’s grown weary of Blofeld and finds greater joy in portraying Churchill.
‘I have much more fun as Churchill, he’s a much warmer character and has great appeal, and the Pope was a nice chap.’ He added.
“Churchill has warmth and charm,” he said. “The Pope was a nice chap too, but not in demand.”
Brian is considering retirement but isn’t ready just yet
Though age is catching up with him, Brian hasn’t made a final decision about stepping away from the stage.
For now, he’s letting his body decide when it’s time to retire his costumes for good.
“I’ve had so much fun doing this,” he said. “I’ve traveled the world and met incredible people. It’s been a gift.”
Reflecting on his former corporate life, Brian sees continuity in his journey.
His career in sales often felt performative, and becoming a lookalike simply allowed him to channel that energy into something more creative—and far more entertaining.
“I think this was always in me,” he said. “Being a Pope lookalike was just part of the journey.”