From a clip of their departure that triggered “fake Melania” rumors to her appearance at the late Pope’s funeral, see the photos and videos that had everyone talking.

On April 25, 2025, Donald and Melania Trump were captured departing the United States as they made their way to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis. However, footage and photos of the couple boarding a plane circulated online and sparked a flurry of speculation.

Some netizens questioned whether the woman seen with the President was truly Melania, suggesting that her appearance and body language seemed different from what they had come to expect.

Theories about a “fake Melania” gained traction as clips and screenshots were shared across various platforms, fueling widespread debate.“Definitely not Melania; hair too light and no heels. Melania always wears heels!” one netizen shared.

Another person echoed the same sentiment, adamant that the real First Lady would never wear flat shoes and would likely avoid traveling overseas with her husband for the entire trip. Someone else added, “It sure doesn’t look like her-the forehead and jawline seem different.”

Another commenter pointed out that the woman in the clip walked too loosely compared to Melania’s typically rigid and poised demeanor, further fueling theories that a stand-in was used.

Despite the online chatter leading up to their arrival, the Trumps eventually landed in Rome and attended the late Pontiff’s funeral on April 26. Melania appeared somber and elegant in a traditional black ensemble, complete with a long tailored coat and a black lace veil delicately draped over her head.

Her accessories included lace gloves and a subtle cross necklace, highlighting a respectful and timeless look appropriate for the occasion.

Donald was dressed in a navy blue suit paired with a crisp white shirt and a deep blue tie. His American flag pin was prominently displayed on his jacket lapel.

The couple maintained a composed and respectful demeanor throughout the ceremony, their serious expressions reflecting the gravity of the moment. Photographs captured Melania’s composed presence and Donald’s participation, with both appearing focused during the service.

Following their appearance, social media lit up with reactions, with netizens still convinced the First Lady did not look like herself. “Melania looks different. Is it really her?” one person shared in part. Another added, “What happened to her face?” while someone else wrote, “Her face looks like it’s melting off.”

In addition to attending the funeral, Donald and Melania made a private visit to St. Peter’s Basilica to pay their respects to Pope Francis. In an intimate moment, they stood before the late pontiff’s casket, flanked by two Swiss Guards in their traditional colorful uniforms.

In the image captured during their visit, Melania, standing beside her husband, maintained her funeral attire — her black coat, veil, and high-heeled shoes emphasizing a continued air of reverence.

Both appeared deep in thought as they paid tribute, the grandeur and intricate detail of the basilica’s architecture providing a powerful backdrop to the poignant scene.

Later during the three-hour Catholic Mass, the congregation, including numerous world leaders, was invited to exchange a “sign of peace” by shaking hands. A clip from the funeral service showed the U.S. President observing the ritual unfold around him but initially refraining from joining in.

According to forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling, Melania stepped in to prompt her husband. The lip reader told The Daily Mail that the First Lady allegedly instructed her husband to begin shaking hands, encouraging him after he appeared hesitant.

She reportedly leaned in and whispered, “You should do it,” before repeating herself for emphasis. Following her urging, Donald reluctantly extended his hand to French president Emmanuel Macron. “Oh, alright,” he reportedly responded before participating in the traditional gesture of goodwill.

The day also held personal significance for Melania. In an Instagram post shared on April 27, she thanked supporters for their birthday wishes and reflected on attending the funeral on her special day.

“I had the honor of attending Pope Francis’ funeral, on this day, where I prayed for the healing of those who are suffering and for peace in the world,” she wrote.

While Melania reflected on the solemn day, the Vatican had already released the official report on Pope Francis’ passing, confirming the cause of death as a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and what was described as “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”

Following the news of the Pope’s death, St. Peter’s Square filled with emotion. Pilgrims stood in silence, held rosaries, and recited prayers in honor of the late Pope.

One mourner wrapped themselves in an Argentine flag — a tribute to Pope Francis’ roots. Others looked up at the now-empty balcony, where he had blessed the crowd just the day before. “I am sad,” said Brigitte Thalhammer, one of many reflecting on the weight of the moment. “He was very, very important.”

After a rosary concluded, spontaneous applause rippled through the square — a final gesture of gratitude for the 88-year-old pontiff who had shaped a decade of the Catholic Church’s history.

Pope Francis’ death came after months of health complications that had raised global concern. He had been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, for treatment of pneumonia in both lungs.

According to medical reports at the time, he alternated between high-flow oxygen during the day and non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night.

Despite his condition, he continued spiritual duties from his hospital room, following the Roman Curia’s Spiritual Exercises via video and even celebrating the 12th anniversary of his election with a cake brought in by his medical team.

The Vatican described his status as clinically stable within a complex framework. By late March, after two weeks of noted progress, doctors said the Pope would be discharged following a 38-day stay that had twice placed his life at risk.

Though he would require two months of rest and was discouraged from large meetings, his personal physicians were optimistic that he could fully resume activities in time. His release was officially confirmed for March 23. That day, he returned to the Vatican to convalesce at Casa Santa Marta.

Then, on Easter Sunday, April 20, Pope Francis appeared before the public one final time. He blessed thousands from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica after delegating the day’s Mass to Cardinal Angelo Comastri.

Hours later, the world would learn the moment was his farewell. On the morning of April 21, the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis had passed away at 7:35 a.m. in his residence.

At 9:45 a.m., Cardinal Kevin Farrell formally announced the news from Casa Santa Marta, expressing sorrow and gratitude. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church,” he said. “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage, and universal love.”

According to the Holy See Press Office, the Pope’s body would be transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica on April 23 so the faithful may pay their respects. That plan was expected to be finalized following the first General Congregation of Cardinals.

At 8 p.m. on Monday evening, a formal rite was held to certify the Pope’s death and place his body in a coffin in the chapel of his residence. The act was validated by Cardinal Farrell and lasted just under an hour.

Seals were also placed on the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace and on the second floor of Casa Santa Marta, where he had lived. Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, later confirmed that Pope Francis’ close collaborators had begun paying their respects. He also noted that funeral arrangements were still pending.

“Oh my God he is now resting,” one netizen commented. Another shared, “Rest in Peace, as you well deserve 🙏,” while a third typed, “Rip [sic] Pope 🙏 you will be missed.”