What Caused Nick Pope’s Death? Inside His Final Days and Wife Elizabeth Weiss

Nick Pope, a celebrated British UFO expert and former UK Ministry of Defence investigator, has passed away at the age of 60. Known to many as the “real-life Fox Mulder,” Pope brought the study of unexplained aerial phenomena into the mainstream. His death, confirmed by his wife, Elizabeth Weiss, has left the UFO research community and fans around the world mourning.

Nick Pope’s Final Days

Elizabeth Weiss shared the heartbreaking news of her husband’s passing on social media, writing:

“My heart is breaking, Nick passed away this afternoon at our home. The last few weeks of his life, even as he suffered, he managed to do a few interviews from home. I was so lucky to have met and to have married Nick. He was a wonderful husband. I loved him dearly.”

Although she did not officially disclose the cause of death, Nick Pope had been diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer earlier in 2026. The disease had metastasised to his liver, leaving him with little hope for recovery. Despite his declining health, Pope remained professionally active, giving interviews and engaging with his audience from home, earning praise for his dedication and resilience.

In a candid reflection on his illness, Pope stated:

“A while ago, following some digestive issues, I was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. Unfortunately, it’s Stage 4 and has metastasised to my liver. While I know that it’s kindness and hope that lead people to suggest healers and supposed miracle cures, I’m afraid my diagnosis and my situation leave no doubt whatsoever: I can’t beat it.”

Who Is Elizabeth Weiss?

Elizabeth Weiss, an American anthropologist and former professor at San José University, was a grounding influence in Nick Pope’s life. Known for her scientific approach, she was often referred to by Pope as his “real-life Agent Scully.” The couple met in 2010 at a hotel lobby in San José, and their relationship quickly grew before they married and moved to the United States. Together, they shared a love of science, nature, and wildlife.

Nick Pope’s Legacy

Nick Pope’s career in UFO research spanned more than two decades. From 1991 to 1994, he worked at the UK Ministry of Defence, investigating UFO sightings and assessing potential national security threats. After leaving government service, Pope became a prominent independent commentator, appearing on television programs, documentaries, and public events, and authoring several books.

Nick Pope is remembered as one of the most influential figures in UFO research, admired for his scientific curiosity, dedication, and efforts to bring the phenomenon to the public’s attention.