As the world gathered to honor the life of Pope Francis, a wave of unexpected online speculation followed the solemn event — this time centered around former First Lady Melania Trump. Some believe the woman seen alongside Donald Trump at the funeral wasn’t Melania at all, but a body double.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Bergoglio in Argentina, served 12 influential years as the Bishop of Rome before passing away at the age of 88 on April 21. Throughout his papacy, he became a symbol of humility and compassion, breaking traditions by living in modest accommodations, refusing a high salary, and keeping his wardrobe simple — once joking that white pants made him look like an ice cream vendor.
Even in his final days, Pope Francis stayed close to the public. Just a day before his death, he was greeting crowds of nearly 50,000 people in St. Peter’s Square, without the usual bulletproof protection.
The Vatican announced his death through Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who said, “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.” Per his wishes, Pope Francis was laid to rest at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore with a plain tomb marked only with his name, “Franciscus.”
On Saturday, a massive crowd filled St. Peter’s Square for his funeral mass. Leaders from around the world attended, including Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, France’s President Emmanuel Macron, and Prince William. Representing the United States, Donald and Melania Trump were among the dignitaries.
Seated near Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, Donald and Melania were seen arriving at the ceremony. Melania wore a classic black Dolce & Gabbana outfit, topped with a traditional black mantilla and gloves, fitting the somber occasion.
Yet, sharp-eyed internet users quickly zeroed in on footage of the Trumps boarding a helicopter before their departure, igniting speculation. Some online claimed it wasn’t Melania at all. They pointed to small details: her choice of flat shoes, the way she moved, and the fit of her coat — all fueling fresh “body double” rumors.
This isn’t new territory for Melania Trump. Over the years, similar theories have surfaced, especially during public appearances where she wore large sunglasses or seemed noticeably different in behavior. This latest sighting in Rome only stirred the conversation further.
Observers on social media highlighted apparent changes — from missing jewelry to differences in her facial features and posture. Some argued that the real Melania, known for her meticulous style, wouldn’t have worn what they considered an “off-the-rack” coat. Others claimed the woman seen in Italy appeared younger than Melania’s current age.
It’s worth recalling that Melania and Pope Francis met once before, during Donald Trump’s presidency in 2017. That meeting, remembered for its awkward moments, included the need for a translator despite Melania’s claims of speaking Italian.
At this point, no official source has confirmed or supported the body double theory. Still, as with most things involving the Trump family, opinions remain sharply divided online.
Was it truly Melania Trump standing at Donald’s side in Rome — or someone else? As the debate swirls on social media, many are left to wonder. What’s your take?
