All hail, Papa Emeritus IV. After a full album cycle without a new Papa fronting the band, occult-rock antiheroes Ghost have finally anointed Cardinal Copia as their new papal leader. Copia’s surprise promotion was revealed during the band’s show in Mexico City last night (March 3rd), which marked the concluding date of Ghost’s Prequelle cycle. The anointment took place when, after taking his saxophone solo in the song “Miasma,” Papa Nihil (the group’s original frontman who still presides over the band, ushering in his successors) fell to the stage and a large assemblage of sisters gathered around Copia, eventually parting to unveil him in his new mitre, skull makeup and robes. Watch fan-filmed video below.
Later that night, Ghost posted photos of the new Papa to the band’s Instagram along withe the following words: “Gracias México City for your hospitality and warmth. We couldn’t pick a better place to witness the anointment of Cardinal Copia to Papa Emeritus IV. Papa and the ghouls are incredibly thankful for all your wonderful gifts. Looking forward to seeing all of you in 2021. #papaemeritusiv #namelessghouls #namelessghoulettes”
