Melania Trump Attends Pope Francis’ Funeral With Donald Trump, Igniting Buzz

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.

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 Trump 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 a photograph captured during their visit, Melania, standing beside her husband, maintained her funeral attire—her black coat, veil, and high-heeled shoes emphasizing her 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 solemn 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 participating.

According to forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling, Melania intervened to prompt her husband. Hickling told The Daily Mail that the First Lady allegedly whispered to him, encouraging him to join in. She reportedly leaned in and said, “You should do it,” 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 held additional 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.

Meanwhile, 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 an “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.

“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.”