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Trump speaks out at premiere of Melania movie as missing family members spark debate
On January 29, 2026, Melania Trump’s film Melania had its premiere at the newly rebranded Trump Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The event featured a mix of minor celebrities and political figures, including Donald Trump, who accompanied his wife to the premiere. The documentary, centered around the 20 days surrounding Donald Trump’s return to the White House, was a significant moment for Melania as she finally debuted the project.
Despite some media attention and anticipation for the film, Melania didn’t seem overly concerned with its box-office performance. Speaking with CNN, she expressed pride in what they had achieved: “I’m very proud of the film so people may like it, may don’t like it, and that’s their choice. We achieved what we want to achieve. For myself, it’s already successful. I’m very proud of what we did.”
Melania clarifies the film’s intent and shares her pride in the project
At the premiere, Melania took a moment to clarify that the film was not a documentary, despite its label by some. She explained, “Some have called this a documentary. It is not. It is a creative experience that offers perspectives, insights and moments.”
Donald Trump, who had previewed the film earlier, shared his thoughts, calling it glamorous. He also took the opportunity to criticize former President Barack Obama in response to some criticism about Amazon paying $40 million for the film’s rights.
He remarked per NBC News, “Well, I think they’d have to go and ask President Obama, who got paid a lot of money and hasn't done anything.”
Notable absences at the premiere spark speculation
While the premiere had many high-profile attendees, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Nicki Minaj, Pete Hegseth, and Donald Trump Jr., the absence of some key family members raised eyebrows. Barron Trump, the couple’s son, was not in attendance, nor were Eric Trump and Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump’s children from his previous marriage to Ivana Trump.
The film is set to release in over 1,400 theaters across the U.S. and in more than 27 countries. However, despite Donald Trump’s claims that the film was “selling out fast” on social media, some theatergoers reported no tickets had been sold for certain showings.
One user shared a screenshot revealing an empty opening night screening in Jacksonville, while another noted the same situation in a different location.