"Conclave core": TikTok turns to the Vatican
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Screenshot: @toni7950/TikTok, @heartthrobert/TikTok and @thejasonforbes/TikTok
For the first time, the TikTok generation is watching and making content about a papal conclave, otherwise known as "Catholic Superbowl."
The big picture: After an award-winning movie on the topic last year, the sacred process is officially intersecting with pop culture in new ways.
State of play: TikTokers are getting creative in depicting the highly secretive proceedings.
- They're sharing edits and clips of the cardinals they want to see emerge victorious.
- They're acting out skits of what could be happening behind the cardinals' veil of secrecy.
- And they're explaining the rules and players of the highly anticipated "Pope Games."
There's something for everyone.
- The papal election has a theme song, "Let's Have a Conclave," to the tune of "Let's Have a Kiki."
- For reality TV fans, there's "The Real Housecardinals of Vatican City," and "RuPaul Judges the Conclave."
- For sports fans, there's "the Pope Draft."
Flashback: When Pope Francis was elected in the last conclave in 2013, TikTok didn't exist in the U.S.
- The social media of that time was a seagull that landed near the Sistine Chapel chimney and inspired a Twitter account, as New York Magazine's The Cut reports.
Context: The conclave is far more serious than some irreverent videos and skits might suggest.
- The new Pope will take over a Church with some 1.4 billion members worldwide.
- But his power will transcend the faith community, as he assumes a role with vast diplomatic influence.
The bottom line: The electors take an oath of absolute secrecy before voting, and the chapel is sealed.
- Though the closed doors preserve a sense of mystery, it's highly unlikely the cardinals are carrying solo cups and blaring "Like a G6."
- But for now, may your algorithm remain blessed.
Go deeper: Here's how the Catholic Church will choose a new pope
