Papa Emeritus I (2010–2012)
- The first incarnation of the band’s leader, introduced during Opus Eponymous (2010).
- Had a skeletal face, papal robes, and a tall mitre.
- More ominous and mysterious, with minimal public speaking.
- “Retired” in 2012 and replaced by his “younger brother.”
Papa Emeritus II (2012–2015)
- Took over for Infestissumam (2013).
- Had a slightly more expressive face and a different mitre design.
- This era saw Ghost gain more mainstream attention and tour worldwide.
- He was dismissed in 2015 as the band transitioned into a new album cycle.
Papa Emeritus III (2015–2017)
- Introduced for Meliora (2015), with a more youthful and flamboyant personality.
- Heavily involved in interviews and stage banter.
- Had a sleeker look with a smaller mitre and a more theatrical stage presence.
- “Forcibly removed” by the Clergy at the final show of 2017, making way for his successor.
Papa Emeritus IV (2020–2024)
- Originally introduced as Cardinal Copia in 2018, a different character who was not a Papa.
- Officially became Papa Emeritus IV in 2020 before Impera (2022).
- Has a more colorful, regal look with a red-and-white outfit and a feathered hat.
- More charismatic and humorous than past Papas, but still commands a strong stage presence.
Papa Emeritus V (2024–present)
- Officially revealed at the end of the Rite Here Rite Now film (2024).
- Details about his persona and the next album’s theme are still emerging.
- His design and role in Ghost’s lore will become clearer with the upcoming album cycle.
Each Papa Emeritus is still played by Tobias Forge, and their changing personas symbolize a new creative direction for the band. Ghost keeps evolving with each new Papa, both musically and visually!
The Nameless Ghouls
The Nameless Ghouls are the mysterious, masked musicians who serve as the backing band for Papa Emeritus in Ghost. Their identities are hidden, and they are known only by elemental symbols or stage personas. Over the years, their roles and designs have evolved significantly.
Early Years (2010–2015)
- Initially, the Nameless Ghouls wore identical black robes with hoods and silver masks, emphasizing anonymity.
- Their specific instruments were not distinguished, and they acted as a collective force rather than individual personalities.
Meliora Era (2015–2018)
- The band received more distinct identities based on elemental symbols: Fire (lead guitar), Water (bass), Air (keyboards), Earth (rhythm guitar), and Ether (drums).
- Their outfits evolved into black leather suits with silver demon-like masks, removing the hoods and allowing more movement on stage.
- Some Ghouls started engaging more with the audience, showing glimpses of their individual personalities.
Prequelle & Impera Era (2018–Present)
- A significant visual change occurred when Cardinal Copia (later Papa Emeritus IV) took over.
- The Ghouls adopted steampunk-inspired metal masks with slightly different facial designs to help distinguish them.
- More Ghouls were introduced, including Swiss Ghoul (multi-instrumentalist) and Misty Ghoul (a female Ghoul playing keyboards, later known as Cirrus).
- Some playful and mischievous Ghouls became more interactive with fans during live shows.
Notable Features & Lore
- The Nameless Ghouls’ anonymity is a key part of Ghost’s mystique, though some former members’ identities have been revealed over time.
- They act as loyal servants of Papa Emeritus but have occasionally been “replaced” as the band’s lineup shifts.
- The band has had female Ghouls since Prequelle, breaking the initial all-male lineup.
- While they remain mostly silent, some Ghouls interact through gestures and body language, adding personality to their roles.
Ghost’s Nameless Ghouls are an integral part of the band’s theatrical experience, evolving visually and musically with each new album era.