Kelly's Outrage Over 'Conclave'

In a move that has sparked significant controversy, Megyn Kelly took to social media platform X to express her outrage over Edward Berger’s film “Conclave,” branding it a “disgusting anti-Catholic film.” The film, featuring renowned actor Ralph Fiennes as a cardinal navigating scandals within the Vatican during a papal conclave, premiered at the Telluride Film Festival last year and is considered a major contender for the upcoming Oscars.

In a scathing post to her 3.4 million followers, Kelly said, 'I 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. Shame on Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci & John Lithgow for starring in it & shame on director Edward Berger (among others).'

Controversial Twist Ending

Kelly's strong disapproval centers around the film’s controversial twist ending: the revelation that the newly elected pope, Vincent Cardinal Benitez, portrayed by Carlos Diehz, is intersex. Following this shocking disclosure, Fiennes’ character agrees to maintain the secrecy surrounding the pope’s unique identity during the public announcement of his election.

'You make THE POPE INTERSEX! This is the big exciting twist at the end,' Kelly continued in her critique. 'I wish I had known so I wouldn’t have watched it. There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie—every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive. The only exception, of course, is the intersex pope and the cardinal who keeps her secret—because, of course, that kind of Catholic secret-keeping must be lionized. I’m disgusted. 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/smear.'

Film’s Reception and Nominations

'Conclave' features an ensemble cast that includes prominent actors like Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini. Although Kelly expressed her disdain for the film just hours before the 2025 Golden Globes ceremony, where 'Conclave' is nominated for six awards—including best motion picture drama and best actor for Fiennes—it has garnered contrasting opinions. For instance, Variety critic Peter Debruge praised the film, calling it 'one of the most satisfying twists in years' and lauding Fiennes’ performance as a struggle between devotion and doubt.

Cultural Representation Debate

While Kelly’s comments have reignited discussions about representation and sensitivity in media depictions of religion, 'Conclave' continues to captivate audiences and has now made its way into theaters and streaming on Peacock. With the film standing at a crossroads in public opinion, one wonders how it will fare in the awards season and whether it will further fuel debates about cultural representation.

Stay tuned for more reactions as the discourse around “Conclave” unfolds!