The first American pope, Pope Leo XIV recently shared his family’s intricate history and his profound love for the United States in an exclusive interview with NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas. The conversation, held outside Rome, offered a rare glimpse into the pontiff’s personal connection to America’s complex past.
The interview, which took place on July 29, 2026 highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s ancestors, who included immigrants, enslaved people, and slaveholders. This unique heritage has significantly shaped his perspective on freedom and opportunity, values he deeply cherishes about America.
Pope Leo XIV’s family history: a tapestry of American experiences
The pontiff’s family history is a microcosm of America’s own tumultuous past. Pope Leo XIV spoke openly about the presence of both enslaved people and slaveholders in his lineage, acknowledging the duality of America’s history. This awareness has influenced his approach to leadership and his message of unity and reconciliation.
During the interview, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the sense of freedom and opportunity that America represents. These values, he explained, are what make him love the country despite its complex history. His family’s journey, marked by both struggle and triumph, mirrors the broader American experience.
NBC News and Noticias Telemundo’s special coverage
NBC News and Noticias Telemundo served as the exclusive broadcasters for Pope Leo XIV’s Concert for Peace which aired live on July 29, 2026. The event, held at Borgo Laudato Si’ near Rome, featured renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli and an interfaith choir of 200 children from conflict-affected regions around the world.
The concert commemorated the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi and included remarks from Pope Leo XIV, an interview with Bocelli, and a rare tour of Borgo Laudato Si’ and its historic gardens. The special coverage was anchored by Tom Llamas and Julio Vaqueiro who each had a special encounter with the pope.
Exclusive insights and rare glimpses
The special editions of NBC Nightly News and Noticias Telemundo provided viewers with exclusive insights into Pope Leo XIV’s thoughts and experiences. The interviews, conducted live from Rome, offered a deeper understanding of the pontiff’s personal journey and his vision for the future.
In addition to the concert, the broadcast included a rare look at the pope’s garden in his summer house, offering viewers a unique perspective on his personal life and surroundings. The event also featured a special performance by Andrea Bocelli and the children’s choir, adding a musical dimension to the celebration of peace and hope.
Pope Leo XIV’s reflections on being the first American pope
As the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV has a unique perspective on the role of the Catholic Church in the United States. In his interview with Tom Llamas, he reflected on the significance of his historic position and the responsibilities that come with it.
The pontiff discussed the challenges and opportunities of leading the Catholic Church in a diverse and dynamic country like America. He emphasized the importance of unity, compassion, and understanding in addressing the complex issues facing the nation and the world.
Pope Leo XIV’s reflections on his family history and his love for America provide a powerful reminder of the country’s potential for growth and healing. His message of hope and reconciliation resonates with people from all walks of life, offering a vision of a more united and compassionate future.
