Say what? Mark Wahlberg couldn’t resist cracking a joke with Pope Francis about his R-rated 2012 comedy Ted on Saturday, Sept. 26, at the World Meeting of Families event in Philadelphia.
The actor, 48, was the master of ceremonies at the event, which featured performances by Aretha Franklin, Andrea Bocelli, and The Fray. Comedian Jim Gaffigan also sat onstage alongside Wahlberg and Pope Francis, 78, who is wrapping up a six-day visit to the U.S. on Sunday, Sept. 27.
Bobby Hill, a 14-year-old opera singer who sang at the event, went up to the actor after his performance and they embraced. Wahlberg then addressed the crowd.
“That right there was truly the voice of an angel,” the former Calvin Klein model said. “But then he whispered in my ear that he loved the movie Ted, and I told him that was not appropriate for a boy of his age. Holy Father, please forgive me. I’ve always hoped that the good Lord has a sense of humor when it comes and pertains to many of the movies that I’ve made.”
According to an eyewitness, the Lone Survivor star’s joke didn’t receive a response from the Pope. More than 40,000 people were in attendance at the event.
“Being a Catholic is the most important aspect of my life,” the father of four once told the Catholic Herald.
The “Good Vibrations” singer next stars in the film Daddy’s Home alongside Will Ferrell.