The world gathered in grief this weekend as Pope Francis was laid to rest in an emotional farewell at St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025. The occasion drew hundreds of thousands, including global leaders and dignitaries, all paying their respects to a pope who left a lasting legacy. But amid the mourning, several unexpected moments stirred controversy and drew attention away from the solemnity of the day.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, arrived at the Vatican and quickly found himself under fire for behavior many deemed inappropriate. Cameras caught Biden snapping selfies shortly after arriving — a gesture critics said clashed with the tone of the funeral. Social media erupted with disapproval. One user remarked, “Taking selfies at a funeral? That’s just wrong,” while another added, “It’s disrespectful, plain and simple.”
Biden wasn’t alone in taking photos. Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa shared a picture of himself smiling alongside Biden, calling the late Pope his “spiritual leader.” Still, the photo was met with skepticism. Many felt it was more about image than tribute, accusing the participants of turning a deeply sacred event into a photo op.
On the other side of the political aisle, Donald and Melania Trump made headlines of their own. A video of the couple boarding a plane the day before the funeral revived the persistent “Fake Melania” conspiracy theory. Observers claimed Melania looked noticeably different, pointing to her lighter hair and the fact that she wore flat shoes instead of her signature heels.
At the funeral, however, Melania appeared composed in traditional mourning attire — black coat, heels, and a lace veil. But even then, speculation followed. A lip-reading expert cited by The Daily Mail claimed Melania nudged Donald during the “sign of peace,” urging him to participate. “You should do it,” she allegedly told him, prompting a reluctant Trump to shake hands with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Adding a personal layer to the day, Melania later shared that the funeral coincided with her birthday. In a quiet Instagram post, she wrote, “I prayed for healing and peace in the world.”
The ceremony itself ended with a powerful moment of unity — spontaneous applause echoed through the square, a heartfelt send-off to a man revered for his compassion and service. Argentine flags waved, rosaries were held tightly, and many mourners looked up to the empty papal balcony, remembering Pope Francis’ final blessings.
Yet despite the emotional gravity, the funeral was shadowed by digital distractions, conspiracy theories, and critiques of public figures’ behavior. It reignited a broader debate: Is it ever acceptable to take photos at a funeral? Some argue it’s a modern form of remembrance, while others see it as a breach of the moment’s dignity.
As we navigate life in a hyper-connected world, the line between memory-making and respect continues to blur. One thing is clear: not even a funeral for one of the most beloved spiritual leaders of our time is safe from the ever-watchful lens of controversy.
