Harry Styles was seen in Rome during new Pope announcement© Catherine Ivill

celebrity news

Harry Styles spotted at new Pope's announcement: What is the singer doing in Vatican City?

This is not the singer's first "random" appearance, as he surprised fans at the Tokyo Marathon.


Senior Writer
MAY 8, 2025 9:13 PM EDT

Harry Styles was spotted in the crowd during Pope Leo XIV's inaugural speech on May 8, and fans were quick to share their reactions online, sharing their excitement and wondering why he was in attendance. As the new Pope took the papal throne after the conclave in Vatican City, the musician was photographed in the crowd.

The singer was seen keeping a low profile, blending in with the audience as the historic announcement unfolded. Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope in history, had just been elected after a two-day conclave, and his first public remarks were eagerly awaited by thousands gathered outside St. Peter's Basilica.

Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica © ALBERTO PIZZOLI
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica

In an unexpected twist, fans soon realized the former One Direction star was also in attendance. Harry was seen wearing a gray cap with the phrase "Techno is my boyfriend," paired with dark sunglasses.

© X/Twitter
Harry Styles during the new Pope's speech

Fans quickly began sharing photos on social media of the British singer among the crowd, with many amused by his random yet fitting appearance at the historic event.

© TIZIANA FABI
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost addresses the crowd on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time

"Harry Styles is so random, one day he’s winning Album of the Year at the Grammys, next he’s running a marathon in Japan, and today he’s in Rome waiting for the announcement of the new pope. I love being his fan," one fan wrote.

© Catherine Ivill
Harry Styles

"Can’t believe the new pope got a glimpse of Harry Styles on his first day of the job," another person commented. This is not the singer's first "random" appearance, as he surprised fans in March at the Tokyo Marathon.

© X/Twitter
Harry Styles at the Tokyo marathon

At the end of March, Harry was seen with Alessandro Michele, the creative head at Valentino, in Rome. The sighting sparked speculation about what could be in the works, including rumors of a possible collaboration, given their history of working together during Alessandro's time at Gucci.

© ¡HOLA! Reproduction of this article and its photographs in whole or in part is prohibited, even when citing their source.