In March 2023, an AI-generated image of Pope Francis wearing a stylish white puffer jacket went viral, captivating and deceiving countless internet users. The image, created using the AI tool Midjourney by Chicago-based artist Pablo Xavier, depicted the pontiff in a fashionable, oversized coat, blending religious symbolism with high fashion. Xavier, inspired during a psychedelic experience, shared the image on Reddit, where it quickly spread across social media platforms. The Guardian+13The Atlantic+13Time+13CBS News+4BuzzFeed News+4British GQ+4Smithsonian Magazine
The image’s realism led many to believe it was authentic. Model Chrissy Teigen tweeted, “I thought the pope’s puffer jacket was real and didn’t give it a second thought. No way am I surviving the future of technology.” Similarly, YouTube vlogger Keyon Elkins expressed disbelief upon learning the image was AI-generated. The Irish Times+7Smithsonian Magazine+7BuzzFeed News+7AOL+1The Independent+1
Despite its convincing appearance, the image contained subtle flaws characteristic of AI-generated content. Observers noted inconsistencies in the pope’s hands and accessories, such as distorted fingers and an oddly rendered water bottle. These anomalies, while minor, highlighted the challenges in distinguishing real images from AI-generated ones.Le Monde.fr+1Time+1Time
The incident sparked discussions about the ethical implications of AI-generated images, especially those involving public figures. Experts emphasized the need for media literacy and critical evaluation of digital content. As AI technology advances, the potential for misinformation increases, underscoring the importance of developing tools and strategies to verify the authenticity of visual media. CBS News+2Smithsonian Magazine+2Time+2
Pope Francis himself addressed the issue, warning about the dangers of “fake news” and deepfakes. He acknowledged being a subject of such fabrications and emphasized the need for ethical use of technology. The Guardian
The viral image of Pope Francis in a puffer jacket serves as a case study in the power and peril of AI-generated content. It illustrates how easily realistic images can be fabricated and disseminated, challenging our perceptions of reality and authenticity in the digital age.
