Megyn Kelly has sparked a fierce debate with her recent comments on the 2024 film Conclave, labeling it “disgusting” and “anti-Catholic” in a fiery post shared on X (formerly Twitter). The movie, a mystery thriller set in the Vatican, follows a Cardinal who uncovers scandals as the Church prepares to elect a new pope. Despite receiving critical acclaim, including six Golden Globe nominations, Kelly was clearly outraged after watching the film.
In her post, Kelly didn’t hold back, criticizing the movie for its portrayal of the Catholic Church. “Just made the huge mistake of watching the much-celebrated Conclave, and it is the most disgusting anti-Catholic film I have seen in a long time,” Kelly wrote, expressing her frustration over the content. She specifically called out the film’s stars, including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, as well as the director, Edward Berger. “Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starring in it, and shame on director Edward Berger,” she said.
The most controversial element of Kelly’s criticism was a spoiler regarding the film’s plot. She revealed that the movie’s big twist involves making the pope intersex, which she found deeply troubling. “Spoiler: They make THE POPE INTERSEX! This is the big exciting twist at the end. I wish I had known so I wouldn’t have watched it,” she wrote, further intensifying the conversation.
Kelly also took issue with the film’s timing, which coincides with the Christmas season. She argued that such a portrayal would never be allowed against other religions, claiming, “What a thing to release to streaming just in time for Christmas. They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock, belittle, and smear.”
Her remarks have ignited a wave of reactions across social media, as supporters and critics alike weigh in on the controversy. Kelly’s comments came just hours before the Golden Globe Awards, where Conclave is expected to be a major contender, adding fuel to an already heated debate. As if the backlash weren’t enough, the film has now also emerged as a leading nominee at the BAFTA Film Awards with 12 nominations, a fact that Kelly is unlikely to be pleased with. The ongoing discourse surrounding Conclave is sure to continue, especially as it garners more attention during awards season.
