As Donald and Melania Trump boarded their plane on April 25, 2025, bound for Rome to attend Pope Francis’ funeral, a wave of speculation immediately lit up the internet. Footage and photographs of their departure sparked widespread debate, with many wondering whether it was truly Melania at the former president’s side.

Across social media, theories about a “fake Melania” quickly took hold. Observers pointed to subtle but suspicious details — her hair appeared lighter, she wore flat shoes instead of her usual heels, and her walk seemed less poised than what people had come to expect. “Definitely not Melania,” one user insisted. Another echoed the sentiment, arguing that the real Melania would never travel abroad without her signature heels.

Despite the swirling conspiracy theories, Donald and Melania landed in Rome the following day, stepping solemnly into the heart of St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects to the late Pontiff. Melania appeared elegant and composed, dressed in a traditional all-black ensemble complete with a long tailored coat, black lace veil, and lace gloves. A simple cross necklace completed her respectful, understated look. Donald wore a navy blue suit with a deep blue tie, his American flag pin gleaming on his lapel.

Throughout the solemn funeral ceremony, the couple maintained a serious demeanor, blending into a sea of mourners that included dozens of world leaders and dignitaries. Cameras captured moments of quiet reflection, showing Melania standing beside Donald, both visibly moved by the occasion.

Yet, even as they paid tribute, online chatter didn’t die down. Some viewers remained convinced that Melania’s appearance was somehow different. Comments flooded social media: “Melania looks different. Is it really her?” asked one. “What happened to her face?” wondered another, while others speculated about body doubles and makeup mishaps.

During a private moment inside St. Peter’s Basilica, the Trumps stood quietly before Pope Francis’ casket, flanked by Swiss Guards in their traditional uniforms. Melania, draped in black, appeared deep in thought, her figure silhouetted against the breathtaking architecture of the basilica.

Later, as the three-hour Mass unfolded, world leaders were invited to exchange a “sign of peace.” A brief clip from the ceremony showed Donald hesitating, unsure whether to join in. It was Melania who reportedly whispered encouragement: “You should do it.” According to forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling, she repeated the prompt until Donald finally extended his hand to French President Emmanuel Macron, participating in the symbolic gesture.

For Melania, the day held personal significance beyond the funeral itself. She turned to Instagram on April 27, thanking supporters for their birthday wishes and reflecting on the solemn honor of attending the funeral. “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 the world reflected on the loss of Pope Francis, the Vatican released an official statement confirming his cause of death: a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and, ultimately, an irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.

St. Peter’s Square, filled with grieving pilgrims, became a sea of rosaries and quiet prayers. One mourner wrapped themselves in an Argentine flag, honoring the pope’s heritage. Others gazed at the empty balcony where Francis had offered his final blessing just one day before his passing. “I am sad,” said Brigitte Thalhammer, a visitor reflecting on the loss. “He was very, very important.”

The pope’s death came after months of health struggles. He had been hospitalized on February 14, 2025, for pneumonia and spent several weeks in treatment. Despite his declining health, Francis remained active from his hospital room, celebrating the anniversary of his election with a small cake and continuing his spiritual duties.

On Easter Sunday, April 20, he appeared publicly one last time, blessing thousands from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Hours later, on April 21, the Vatican confirmed his passing at 7:35 a.m.

Following tradition, a solemn rite was held that evening to officially certify his death. His body was placed in a coffin and transferred to St. Peter’s Basilica, where over 250,000 mourners would pay their respects before the funeral.

Tributes to Francis poured in from around the globe. Leaders and everyday citizens alike mourned the loss of a pope who had spent his life championing inclusion, compassion, and the Gospel’s message of love and mercy. As one mourner put it simply, “Rest in peace, Pope Francis. You will be missed.”