The Vatican announced that the conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor will start on May 7, following a closed-door meeting of cardinals at the Vatican. The secretive process, which brings together around 130 cardinals from worldwide, is sparking real-life drama.
Italian Cardinal Angelo Becciu, convicted of financial crimes by the Vatican, is being considered for participation in the conclave despite his dismissal in 2020. Becciu claims he has a right to take part due to not being formally removed from the College of Cardinals. The Vatican has yet to resolve the issue.
The electors have been largely chosen by Francis and reflect his vision for an inclusive church. A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new pope, and several names are in contention, including Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi. However, CNN’s Vatican Correspondent Christopher Lamb notes that the race remains open and unpredictable, with contenders from diverse backgrounds.
The conclave process will follow the format seen in the 2013 film “Conclave,” where electors are isolated from outsiders, and observers monitor the Sistine Chapel’s chimney for smoke signals indicating a new pope’s election.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/global/vatican-papal-conclave-drama-convicted-cardinal-1236380086