A look at celebrities who’ve broken Vatican rules, including JD Vance and others who have sparked widespread outrage with their actions.
The Vatican’s strict rules on behavior and etiquette are well-known, but some high-profile visitors continue to disregard them, drawing public criticism. JD Vance, the U.S. Vice President, recently added his name to this list.
His visit to Vatican City last week, where he paid tribute to the late Pope Francis and explored religious sites.
It sparked online outrage after he and his son were photographed in the Sistine Chapel—an act strictly prohibited by Vatican guidelines.
JD Vance’s controversial visit to the Sistine Chapel
During his Easter visit, JD Vance was criticized for a photograph taken inside the Sistine Chapel.
The chapel, renowned for its Michelangelo ceiling, enforces a no-photography policy.
The Vatican’s official rules, which are prominently displayed, clearly prohibit any photography with electronic devices.
Despite these regulations, Vance’s photo prompted social media backlash, with some calling it disrespectful.
Why is photography banned in the Sistine Chapel?
The Vatican strictly forbids photography and filming in the Sistine Chapel, regardless of the equipment used.
According to official rules, visitors must not take photos or videos inside the chapel under any circumstances.
The Vatican website states: “”In the Sistine Chapel it is forbidden to take photographs or films with any type of electronic equipment. The guard staff is authorised to request the immediate cancellation, in their presence, of video or photographic material produced in contravention of this rule.”
Security staff are authorized to ask visitors to delete any prohibited images on the spot.
The policy helps protect the centuries-old frescoes, especially Michelangelo’s masterpiece completed in 1512.
Silence is also required out of respect for the sacredness of the location and its ceremonial importance.
Other celebrities who have disregarded Vatican rules
JD Vance isn’t the first celebrity to face backlash for breaking Vatican rules. Here are a few other high-profile figures who have stirred controversy in Vatican City.
Martha Stewart: Ignoring the no-photography rule
In December of last year, lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart faced criticism after sharing photos from the Sistine Chapel on Instagram.
Stewart uploaded images taken during a “quiet hour” in the chapel, an act that violates the Vatican’s policy against photography.
Additionally, mobile phone usage is also forbidden in the chapel, but Stewart was seen taking photos with her iPhone, prompting further disapproval.
Jennifer Aniston: Violating dress code standards
Actress Jennifer Aniston encountered controversy during her 2012 visit to St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Vatican enforces a strict dress code for all visitors, prohibiting sleeveless or low-cut clothing and attire that exposes the knees.
While Aniston covered her shoulders, her short grey dress did not meet the decorum requirements, as it was too short for the sacred site.
Kim Kardashian: Breaking dress code during Vatican tour
Kim Kardashian also drew ire during a visit to Vatican Museums, where she posted photos of her tour on social media.
The reality star wore a figure-hugging white lace dress with cut-outs around the stomach, violating the dress code.
She wrote on Instagram: “We had the most incredible experience touring Vatican City @vaticanmuseums. It was amazing to be able to view all of the iconic art, architecture and ancient Roman sculptures in person, especially Michelangelo’s works.
“We even had an opportunity to view their private archive of robes worn by every pope in history, dating back to the 1500’s. Thank you @ocspecial for arranging the visit.”
Despite public criticism, Kardashian defended herself on Instagram, stating that she adhered to the dress code while inside St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Jason Momoa: Apologizing for Breaking Rules
In 2022, actor Jason Momoa, best known for his role as Aquaman, faced criticism for taking photos inside the Pope’s residence during his visit to Vatican City.
He wrote: “I LOVE YOU ITALY what a beautiful start to our day off enjoying ROMA big mahalos to @vaticanmuseums @rembrandt82 @imagoartistravel @fulvioiatravel @chiaradimuoio @vioscooking ALOHA J.”
Momoa shared several snaps from his time in the Sistine Chapel.
She was even seen touching a sculpture, another violation of Vatican guidelines.
The actor later issued an apology, explaining that it was not his intention to disrespect the sacred site.
Russell Crowe
Russell Crowe faced criticism after sharing a personal moment with his mother inside the Sistine Chapel.
While in Rome filming The Pope’s Exorcist in 2023, the Gladiator star posted several photos and videos on Twitter.
He revealed that he and his mother were given the rare opportunity.
They were able to walk through the Vatican Museum without any other tourists
It was a quiet time for them to reflect on the recent passing of his father
“A very special experience as a family yesterday,” he wrote.
“We were able to walk through the Vatican Museum by ourselves, with no crowd, and I could take my mom in her wheelchair through the corridors.”
He further shared that they were granted access to areas of the collection usually off-limits to regular tourists.