In a striking contrast to the global media landscape, Record TV, a Brazilian network owned by the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God, faced backlash for its minimal coverage of the death of Pope Francis. The pontiff passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, a loss that sent shockwaves across the world.
The Vatican officially announced the pope's death at 7:35 AM Rome time, prompting a flurry of special broadcasts and live reports from major Brazilian networks like Globo, SBT, and Band. These channels prioritized the news, providing viewers with in-depth analyses, interviews, and live coverage reflecting the monumental significance of the pope's passing.
In stark contrast, Record TV opted to continue its regular programming, only acknowledging the event with a brief mention during its JR 24h news segment. According to sources, this decision came directly from the network's general direction, specifically Bishop Edir Macedo, who instructed that there be no extensive coverage of the pope's death.
While other networks dedicated substantial airtime to the story, Record's programming remained focused on entertainment and local news. Throughout the morning, viewers were treated to segments on soccer, diabetes, holiday weather, and even a story about a pitbull that had climbed a gate, all while the world mourned the loss of a significant religious leader.
Record TV's decision did not go unnoticed. Social media erupted with criticism, particularly on X, formerly known as Twitter. Users expressed their disappointment, with one remarking, "The Record treated the death of the Pope as irrelevant in its programming." Another user added, "It's not about religion, but about the historical importance of a leader who touched millions. The absence of this coverage speaks volumes."
The backlash highlights a broader conversation about media responsibility and the role of religious networks in covering significant events. Record TV, which has been under the ownership of the Universal Church since November 1989, has previously stated its commitment to neutrality, claiming in 2023 that it has no religion. However, the decision to minimize coverage of the pope's death raises questions about the network's editorial choices and its alignment with the interests of its audience.
The pope's death marks a pivotal moment in the Catholic Church, as he was a widely respected figure known for his progressive views and efforts to bridge divides within the global community. His passing not only affects millions of Catholics but also reverberates through the broader religious landscape, prompting reflections on leadership and the future direction of the Church.
As other networks swiftly adapted their programming to honor the late pontiff, Record's approach stands out as a significant deviation. This incident could have lasting implications for the network's reputation and its relationship with viewers who expect comprehensive coverage of major news events.
In the wake of the pope's death, discussions about media ethics and the responsibilities of religious broadcasters are likely to intensify. The public's expectation for respectful and thorough coverage of such events may lead to increased scrutiny of how religious networks like Record TV navigate their dual roles as both media outlets and religious institutions.
While the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, the reactions from various media outlets serve as a reminder of the diverse approaches to reporting on significant historical moments. As viewers reflect on the impact of the pope's life and legacy, they will also consider the role of media in shaping narratives around such pivotal events.
Ultimately, the response from Record TV could influence its future programming decisions and its engagement with both its audience and the broader media community. As the dust settles on this event, it remains to be seen how the network will address the criticisms and whether it will adjust its editorial strategies moving forward.
