From viral whispers of a “fake Melania” to her solemn appearance at the Pope’s funeral, these moments had everyone talking.
On April 25, 2025, Donald and Melania Trump were photographed as they departed the United States en route to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. But it wasn’t just the occasion that drew attention—images of the couple boarding the plane quickly went viral, igniting a flurry of speculation and online buzz
Netizen comment dated April 25, 2025: “Look at her face. That’s NOT Melania.” | Source: X/@Jennyjinx
Speculation erupted online after some users questioned whether the woman seen accompanying the President was truly Melania Trump. Observers pointed to subtle differences in her appearance and body language, sparking a wave of intrigue.
The “Fake Melania” theory quickly gained momentum as video clips and screenshots spread across social media. One user commented, “That’s definitely not Melania — the hair’s too light, and she’s not wearing heels. Melania always wears heels.”
Another observer shared a similar opinion, claiming the real First Lady would never be caught in flats and likely wouldn’t accompany her husband for an entire overseas trip. Someone else chimed in, pointing out, “That doesn’t look like her at all—her forehead and jawline are completely different.”
Adding to the speculation, another commenter remarked that the woman in the video moved far too casually, lacking Melania’s signature stiff, composed posture—further fueling rumors that a body double may have stepped in.
Brushing aside swirling internet rumors, the Trumps arrived in Rome to pay their respects at the funeral of the late Pontiff on April 26. Melania Trump captivated attention with her dignified presence, dressed in a graceful, traditional black ensemble. Her long, tailored coat exuded refinement, while a delicate black lace veil draped elegantly over her head added a touch of timeless solemnity.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump photographed on April 26, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
She completed her ensemble with elegant lace gloves and a delicate cross necklace, adding a touch of grace and reverence that perfectly suited the solemnity of the occasion.
Donald opted for a classic navy blue suit, paired with a crisp white shirt and a deep blue tie. A small American flag pin on his lapel offered a subtle yet patriotic finishing touch.
Donald and Melania Trump during Pope Francis’ funeral ceremony on April 26, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
The couple exuded poise and dignity throughout the ceremony, their composed expressions underscoring the solemnity of the occasion. Melania’s graceful presence was quietly powerful, while Donald remained attentive and engaged. Photographs captured their focused demeanor, reflecting the deep respect they brought to the moment.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump during the funeral ceremony for Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on April 26, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Following her recent appearance, social media lit up with speculation, as many users expressed disbelief over the First Lady’s look. “Melania looks different. Is that really her?” one person questioned. Another commented, “What happened to her face?” while a third remarked bluntly, “Her face looks like it’s melting.”
Donald and Melania Trump | Source: Getty Images
Following the funeral service, Donald and Melania Trump made a solemn private visit to St. Peter’s Basilica to honor Pope Francis. In a poignant moment of reflection, the couple stood before the late pontiff’s coffin, flanked by two Swiss Guards in their strikingly traditional, colorful attire.
Captured in a powerful image, Melania stood beside her husband, clad in elegant funeral attire—her black coat, lace veil, and high heels a graceful symbol of mourning and respect.
With solemn expressions, the pair paid their respects in silence, framed by the breathtaking grandeur of the basilica’s ornate architecture—a fittingly majestic backdrop for such a moment of tribute.
During the solemn three-hour Catholic Mass, attendees—including a host of global leaders—were invited to share a symbolic “sign of peace” by shaking hands. As the gesture swept through the congregation, a video captured the U.S. President observing the moment, initially choosing not to participate.
However, according to expert lip reader Nicola Hickling, it was First Lady Melania Trump who gave him a gentle nudge. Speaking to The Daily Mail, Hickling claimed that Melania discreetly encouraged her husband to take part by offering her hand and urging him to engage, helping him overcome his apparent hesitation.
She reportedly leaned in close and whispered, “You should do it,” her voice firm but low. Then, to drive the point home, she repeated the words. At her urging, Donald hesitated for a moment before finally extending his hand to French President Emmanuel Macron. “Okay,” he said, giving in and joining the customary gesture of goodwill.
The day carried a deeper, more personal meaning for Melania as well. In an Instagram post shared on April 27, she expressed gratitude for the birthday wishes she received and shared a poignant reflection on how she spent the day.
“I had the honor of attending Pope Francis’ funeral,” she wrote. “On this special day, I offered prayers for those in pain and for peace across the world.”
As Melania paused to reflect on the somber significance of the day, the Vatican officially confirmed the passing of Pope Francis. The report revealed that he succumbed to a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and ultimately an “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”
“Today, I had the profound honor of attending the funeral of Pope Francis,” she wrote. “I offered prayers for those in pain and for lasting peace throughout the world.”
Pope Francis leaves Gemelli Hospital, his first public appearance since his hospitalization in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
In the wake of the Pope’s passing, a profound hush blanketed St. Peter’s Square, where thousands gathered in solemn tribute. Pilgrims stood still, clutching rosaries, their lips quietly moving in prayer as they honored the beloved spiritual leader.
Among the mourners, one figure stood out—draped in an Argentine flag, a heartfelt nod to Pope Francis’s heritage. Eyes turned toward the now-empty balcony, the very place where he had offered his final blessing just the day before.
“I’m heartbroken,” said Brigitte Thalhammer, her voice heavy with emotion. “He meant so much to all of us. This moment is deeply, deeply moving.”
A man prays beneath the sculpture of St. John Paul II at the main entrance of the Policlinico A. Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis was being treated, in Rome, Italy, March 13, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
As the final prayer of the rosary echoed through the square, a wave of spontaneous applause erupted—an emotional farewell and heartfelt tribute to the 88-year-old pontiff who had left a lasting mark on the Catholic Church over the past decade.
Pope Francis passed away following a prolonged period of health struggles that had drawn global concern. He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, battling severe pneumonia that had affected both lungs.
Pope Francis greets soccer player Dani Alves during the launch of the Scholas Occurrentes International Movement at the Pontifical Urban University in Vatican City, May 19, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Medical reports from the time revealed that he relied on high-flow oxygen during the day and noninvasive mechanical ventilation at night.
Yet, even amid these health challenges, he remained devoted to his spiritual mission—participating in the Roman Curia’s Spiritual Exercises via video from his hospital bed. In a touching moment of celebration, he marked the 12th anniversary of his election with a cake lovingly brought in by his medical team.
Pope Francis blessing a baby during his weekly audience in the Paul VI Hall in Vatican City, February 12, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
The Vatican reported that the Pope’s condition remained clinically stable, though within a complex medical context. By the end of March, after an impressive two weeks of recovery, doctors announced that he would be discharged following a harrowing 38-day hospital stay that had twice brought him to the brink of danger.
Despite needing two months of rest and being advised to avoid large public gatherings, his personal physicians expressed confidence in his eventual return to full duties. His discharge was officially confirmed for March 23. On that day, the Pope made his way back to the Vatican to continue his recovery at Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis appears on his balcony to address the crowd at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy, March 23, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
On Easter Sunday, April 20, Pope Francis made his final public appearance, stepping onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to bless thousands of faithful gathered below. Though he had entrusted the celebration of Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri, his presence radiated warmth and grace, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
Tragically, just hours later, the world would come to understand the true significance of that moment. In the early morning of April 21, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his residence—his Easter blessing, as it turned out, was a final goodbye.
At 9:45 a.m., from Casa Santa Marta, Cardinal Kevin Farrell solemnly delivered the news, his voice marked by both sorrow and reverence. “Her life was a testament to unwavering devotion to the Lord and His Church,” he said. “She inspired us to embrace the Gospel with steadfast faith, boldness, and a boundless love for all.”
The Holy See Press Office later confirmed that the Pope’s body would be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23, allowing the faithful to offer their final respects. The details of this arrangement were to be finalized following the first General Congregation of Cardinals.
Pope Francis meets with Italian actor and director Roberto Benigni in the Paul VI Hall in Vatican City, December 7, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
At 8 p.m. on Monday evening, a solemn and moving ceremony took place in the chapel of the Pope’s residence, officially confirming his passing and placing his body into a coffin. Presided over by Cardinal Farrell, the rite lasted just under an hour, filled with reverence and deep reflection.
Following the ceremony, official seals were placed on the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace and on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta, where the Pope had spent his final years. Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, later confirmed that those closest to Pope Francis had begun to gather and pay their respects. Funeral details, he added, were still being finalized.
Online, tributes poured in from around the world. “Oh my God, he’s resting now,” one user wrote, while another shared, “Rest in peace, as you deserve 🙏.” A heartfelt comment simply read, “RIP Dad 🙏 we’ll miss you.”
