No one expected an American pope. Here's the inside story of how 'Bob' became Pope Leo
This excerpt from a new biography details the personal journey of Cardinal Robert Prevost, who unexpectedly became Pope Leo XIV following the death of Pope Francis. It highlights his background, friendships, and the transition into his new role.
Why it matters
The election of an American pope represents a significant shift in the leadership and global perception of the Catholic Church.
NPR's Daniel Burke and Scott Detrow covered the 2025 conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV. The following excerpt is adapted from their new biography of Pope Leo, American Pope , out Tuesday .
In the days immediately following Pope Francis' death, messages from friends poured into Cardinal Robert Prevost's phone.
Father Ramiro Castillo Castro, who had studied under Prevost in the 1990s, was among those who sent condolences. "Thank you, Ramiro," Prevost responded. "We have to pray a lot. Big hug."
"Polly and I send our love and prayers for you in these momentous days," wrote John Snider, a Lutheran pastor with whom Prevost had spent a summer in Minneapolis debating theology and learning how to minister to the sick and dying before they were both ordained.
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