Outrage Over AI Video of Pope Francis in Heaven with Celebrities

An AI-generated video depicting Pope Francis in the afterlife, meeting deceased celebrities such as Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Diana, Michael Jackson, and Stephen Hawking, has gone viral and sparked widespread outrage online. Many viewers described the video as 'creepy,' 'distasteful,' and even 'blasphemous,' criticizing its emotional manipulation and the use of real people's likenesses so soon after the pontiff's passing. Particular controversy arose from the inclusion of figures like Stephen Hawking, a known atheist, and Michael Jackson, who faced serious allegations during his life. Critics argued that the video was disrespectful both to Pope Francis' memory and to the legacies of the other individuals depicted. Some users highlighted concerns about the ethical implications of using AI to create such content, calling for greater regulation and sensitivity. While a few viewers found the video touching or hopeful, the overwhelming response was one of discomfort and condemnation.