Trump hails Melania as ‘big movie star,’ says documentary is biggest in 20 years

Trump praises film’s box office run, claims packed theaters and strong repeat viewership nationwide
UPDATED FEB 20, 2026
President Donald Trump spoke about Melania Trump’s documentary success during a public appearance in Washington, DC (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
President Donald Trump spoke about Melania Trump’s documentary success during a public appearance in Washington, DC (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump says the first lady Melania Trump has officially become a 'big movie star.' Speaking at a recent event, the president praised her new documentary and its box office performance, while adding a lighthearted remark about fame within their household.

Trump highlighted the commercial success of the film and made clear he is proud of the attention it has generated. At the same time, he joked that there may not be room for two stars in one family.

Trump celebrates Melania’s movie success

Trump spoke about Melania Trump’s newly released documentary, 'Melania,' which has reportedly earned about $16 million at the global box office. According to Variety, he told attendees, “She has a very successful movie out right now, like number one. Can you believe this?”

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 11: U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attend the opening night of
President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump attended the opening night of 'Les Miserables' at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC (Shannon Finney/Getty Images)

He then added a humorous aside about sharing the spotlight at home. “Big movie star, and I always say it’s trouble, because I always say there’s not room in one family for two stars. I told her that we can’t have two stars in one family, so I don’t know what that means. It’s not good.”

Despite the joke, Trump repeatedly emphasized how proud he is of his wife. He described the documentary as “the biggest-selling documentary in 20 years” and claimed theaters have been packed with viewers.

“The theaters are all packed. Women, especially, they go back, and they see it two or three times, four times,” Trump said, underscoring the film’s appeal among audiences.

Inside Melania’s documentary and box office performance 

The documentary focuses on Melania Trump’s return to the role of first lady ahead of Trump’s second inauguration. Released on January 30, the film is now in its fourth week in theaters and has earned approximately $15.8 million worldwide. While it opened strongly, critical reception has been mixed.

First Lady Melania Trump attends Amazon MGM's 'Melania' World Premiere at The Trump Kennedy Center on January 29, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
First lady Melania Trump attended the world premiere of Melania at The Trump Kennedy Center in Washington, DC (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Directed by Brett Ratner and backed by Amazon MGM Studios, the film follows the 20 days leading up to the swearing-in ceremony. Reports indicate that Amazon MGM Studios paid $40 million for worldwide rights and invested an additional $35 million in global marketing, potentially making it one of the most expensive documentaries ever produced.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Melania Trump addressed the intent behind the project. “I believe the Americans and people all over the world should witness the incredible amount of planning and work required when shifting from private citizen to first lady. I take pride in every detail,” she said.

As the documentary continues its theatrical run, Trump’s public praise and playful comments have added another layer of attention to the film’s growing profile.

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