Fox News contributor Jonathan Morris has drawn comparisons between Pope Francis’ current health struggles and the final days of Pope John Paul II, calling the situations “eerily similar” in their medical and symbolic significance. Both pontiffs faced extended hospitalizations at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital (dubbed “Vatican III” by John Paul II), with their conditions sparking global attention about leadership continuity in the Catholic Church[5][3][7].
Key parallels highlighted include:
– : Francis battles bilateral pneumonia and multiple infections (viral, bacterial, fungal) at 88, while John Paul II endured chronic bronchitis, Parkinson’s disease, and sepsis before dying at 84[3][5].
– : Francis’ 14-day stay (as of March 2025) mirrors John Paul II’s 120+ nights at Gemelli, including his final 10-week hospitalization in 2005[5][1][3].
– : Media circulated premature death rumors about both popes during their illnesses, with Francis’ aides recently denying resignation rumors just as John Paul II’s team dismissed “imminent death” claims for years[7][5][9].
– : Both hospitalizations raised questions about papal succession planning, with Francis confirming he wrote a resignation letter (like Benedict XVI) while asserting the papacy remains a lifelong commitment[3][7].
Morris, a former priest turned media analyst, emphasizes the spiritual and geopolitical stakes of a potential papal transition, noting the Vatican’s critical role in global affairs. His commentary reflects concerns that Francis’ health crisis – like John Paul II’s decline – could destabilize Church leadership during the ongoing Jubilee year celebrations[1][10][8].
