Did Harry Clark really get to meet the Pope?

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Well, it's a question that many asked themselves following the announcement of Harry Clark Goes to Rome, a documentary series following the reality TV star on a personal pilgrimage.

After anticipation built, the BBC has finally confirmed that Clark achieves his "seemingly impossible dream" of meeting Pope Leo XIV, and audiences will be able to see the deeply moving moment tomorrow night (2 April).

The documentary follows the former Traitors winner on a personal pilgrimage to Rome in search of answers abut faith, identity and what it means to be a "good" Catholic in the modern world. But at the centre of his journey was to meet one of the most powerful figures on the planet.

And against all odds, he does just that.

Harry Clark and his mum Georgia sat down opposite Pope Leo XIV.
Pope Leo XIV, Harry Clark and his mum Georgia. BBC/CTVC

In an extraordinary moment, Clark is granted a private audience with Pope Leo XIV and what follows is a heartfelt, surreal and humorous encounter "that captures the spirit of the film".

On meeting the Pope, Clark said: "I never thought the Pope would want to meet me but here we are. It was a life-changing experience and it was great to do it alongside my mum. It’s one of the coolest experiences of my life.

"It was the first time in my life my mind was blown and I thought wow, I'm just a kid from a council house in Slough and here I am sitting opposite Pope Leo XIV talking about the importance of mental health awareness and that whether you have faith or not, life is worth living.

"My message to other young people is to never let anyone tell you you can’t achieve or accomplish something. Keep dreaming big."

The experience is even more poignant for Clark, as he shares the moment with his mum, the person who first instilled his faith and supported him through the most challenging moments of his life.

Harry Clark Goes to Rome airs on Thursday 2 April at 10:40pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

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Authors

Katelyn Mensah is smiling and looking at the camera, her head slightly tilted. She is wearing a navy blue V-necked top with her long hair cascading down one side
Katelyn MensahSenior Entertainment Writer

Katelyn Mensah is the Senior Entertainment Writer for Radio Times, covering all major entertainment programmes, reality TV shows and the latest hard-hitting documentaries. She previously worked at The Tab, with a focus on reality TV and showbiz news and has obtained a BA (Hons) in Journalism.

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