Fans of The Simpsons believe the show predicted the election of an American pope, citing past prophetic moments.
The Simpsons has built a reputation for predicting the future, and its fans are convinced that the show’s creators have done it again.
The recent election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV has sparked discussions among fans.
Many are drawing connections to earlier episodes of the beloved animated series, which seem to have predicted the emergence of an American pope.
This prediction follows other famous foresights, like Trump’s presidential bid and Elon Musk’s political rise.
Fans believe The Simpsons show predicted the election of the new American pope years ago
On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Prevost was officially elected as the new pope following the death of Pope Francis.
Prevost, originally from Chicago, made history by becoming the first American pontiff, taking the papal name Pope Leo XIV.
His ascension drew attention due to his American origins, which President Trump called a “great honor” for the U.S.
Simpsons fans, however, were quick to point out that this development seemed eerily familiar.
In one episode from the show’s 10th season, “The Wizard of Evergreen Terrace,” viewers were introduced to a story that some say foreshadowed the election of Pope Leo XIV.
The episode featured newsreader Kent Brockman announcing that “the phoney Pope can be recognized by his high-top sneakers and incredibly foul mouth.”
The bold statement raised eyebrows, with fans connecting the character’s traits to those of the newly elected pope.
Simpsons fans react to the prophetic Pope prediction
The show’s reference to a “Pope with high tops” and Pope Leo XIV has sparked widespread online discussion.
Fans on Reddit shared screenshots of the scene from “The Wizard of Evergreen Terrace,” with many remarking on the strange coincidence.
One user commented that the prediction is now part of the growing list of The Simpsons’ accurate forecasts.
They noted the new pope’s Chicago roots and potential for a more modern, outspoken approach, aligning with the earlier episode’s description.
Another Reddit user chimed in, humorously acknowledging the unexpected nature of the prediction.
“I don’t think any of us expected him to say that,” one wrote, referencing the surprising nature of the prophecy.
Others expressed similar astonishment at the bizarre accuracy of the prediction, with one fan writing, “Was just coming to post this!”
More predictions from The Simpsons vault
This isn’t the first time that The Simpsons has seemingly predicted significant events in history.
The show has previously predicted Donald Trump’s presidency, Elon Musk’s political rise, and Conan O’Brien hosting the 2025 Academy Awards.
These instances have fueled the idea that the show’s writers can forecast the future, intentionally or not.
In the episode “The City of New York vs Homer Simpson,” Moe the bartender jokingly suggested the group choose a designated driver.
He humorously compared the process to selecting the Pope.
He then reaches into a jar of pickled eggs, an odd choice that ties back to the pope’s selection process.
Barney, the driver, later admits losing Homer’s car while at Villanova University, where Pope Leo XIV studied in his youth.