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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 30, 2026

Lou Ferrigno Meets Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City

The actor known for his role as The Incredible Hulk described the encounter as a lifelong dream.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Lou Ferrigno Meets Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City

Lou Ferrigno, the actor who portrayed The Incredible Hulk in the 1977–1982 television series, met with Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City on Wednesday, fulfilling what he called a childhood dream. The encounter occurred at the conclusion of the Pope's general audience in St. Peter’s Square.

Ferrigno, a retired professional bodybuilder, shared his excitement with reporters, emphasizing the significance of the meeting. "I’m here because it’s a lifelong dream for me to meet the pope," he said. Ferrigno, whose family has roots in the Amalfi region of southern Italy, noted that he grew up in a Catholic Italian household where the Pope was a topic of discussion.

"I’m very, very honoured to be here to see Pope Leo, because it’s my whole life, it’s a dream coming true,” Ferrigno told the press.

During the meeting, Ferrigno posed for photographers, striking a pose reminiscent of his iconic transformation into the Hulk, by raising his fists and bringing them down in a smashing motion.


Sources