Rare encounter in Rome: Pope Francis welcomed over 100 international comedians to the Vatican, including Michael Mittermeier.
Pope Francis (87) received numerous international comedy stars in the Vatican on Friday morning. The German comedians Annette Frier, Meltem Kaptan, Till Reiner, Torsten Sträter and Michael Mittermeier as well as the Swiss stand-up comedian Hazel Brugger (30), who is well-known in Germany, attended the papal audience. Numerous international comedians were also present, including US stars Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock, Stephen Colbert, Conan O’Brien and Whoopie Goldberg.
Michael Mittermeier presents national team jersey
“In the midst of so much grim news, in the midst of so much social and even personal hardship, you have the strength to spread cheerfulness and smiles,” Pope Francis told the comedians in attendance in a brief address, adding that laughter is “the best medicine against selfishness and individualism.”
The Bavarian comedian Michael Mittermeier (58) gave the Pontiff a current, pink football jersey of the German national team with the inscription “Francis” and the jersey number ten. Mittermeier had previously said: “Under certain circumstances, this is the most important performance of my life, I am playing for a spot in heaven.”
“Well, when the request came, I thought it was a joke that some colleague was planning,” explained comedian Torsten Sträter (57), while actress and comedian Meltem Kaptan (43) said: “I think it’s great that the Vatican attaches such importance to humor and provides such a framework, thereby of course also highlighting how important it is in today’s society.”
After the Holy Father’s speech, the 107 invited guests from 15 countries shook Francis’ hand and there was time for a short conversation. “Well, it was short, he spoke in Italian, so I’m not quite sure what he said,” explained former late-night host Conan O’Brien (61).
After his audience, Pope Francis left for the G7 summit in Apulia.
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
