The Catholic Church has named its first-ever American leader, a historic moment set to be explored in a major primetime television special. ABC News is pulling back the curtain on this pivotal event, dedicating a special edition of 20/20 to Pope Leo XIV and his path to the papacy.
Set to air on ABC Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:01-10:01 PM EDT, “The American Pope: Leo XIV – A Special Edition of 20/20” features “World News Tonight” anchor David Muir reporting directly from the Vatican in Rome. The broadcast will go beyond the headlines, investigating the shrouded proceedings of the papal election, known as the conclave, and providing a rare look inside the storied Sistine Chapel and the heart of Vatican City.
This unique presentation follows Pope Leo XIV’s life story across continents. ABC News correspondents are positioned globally to track his journey, starting from his early years in Chicago. Deborah Roberts reports from Philadelphia, where he attended Villanova University, while Matt Rivers introduces audiences to the man formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, reporting from Peru. Alex Perez and Liz Nagy share reactions from his hometown of Chicago.
Adding deeply personal context, Pope Leo XIV’s brothers share reflections on his early sense of calling to the priesthood. The special also gathers Father James Martin and Father John Wauck for a roundtable discussion in Rome, providing insights into the future direction of the Catholic Church under its new American head. Further reporting from Rome comes from senior national correspondent Terry Moran and chief international correspondent James Longman.
For those who can’t watch live, the special will be available to stream the following day on ABC News Live, Disney+, and Hulu. Produced under the guidance of executive producer Janice Johnston and Muriel Pearson for ABC News Studios.
