Trump praises Melania as 'very smart, very measured' at premiere of her documentary

WASHINGTON, DC: Donald Trump praised first lady Melania Trump while attending the premiere of her self-titled documentary at the Kennedy Center on Thursday, January 29.

The president accompanied Melania to the high-profile event just days before the film’s worldwide theatrical release on January 30. During the red carpet interaction, a reporter asked Trump whether he would be “the man you are today” had he not met his wife.

Trump paused before replying, calling it “a very interesting question,” and then joked, “He’s asking me a very dangerous question,” drawing laughter from those nearby.

Trump calls Melania ‘very respected, very smart’

Moments later, Trump offered a more reflective response, crediting Melania for her influence and support over the years.

“I think she’s really been a great help. She’s done a great job,” the 79-year-old said. “Very respected, very smart, very measured — very measured, sometimes when I’m not so measured.”

The comments came as Melania’s documentary, titled ‘Melania’, prepares for its global debut. Amazon MGM Studios acquired the project in a reported $40 million deal, marking one of the most expensive documentary acquisitions in recent years. 

Melania speaks on storytelling and cultural impact

Ahead of the premiere, Melania addressed business leaders during an appearance on Wall Street on January 28, where she spoke about the broader purpose behind the film.

“Superior storytelling drives culture and in turn moves markets,” she said while teasing the documentary. “In the near future, cultural influence will matter as much as economic power.”

She emphasized the emotional pull of storytelling, adding, “Our ability to tell our stories and emotionally connect with audiences is paramount. People long to be moved.”

Melania continued, “We need stories that inspire dreams, offer hope, tales of redemption, sad stories, love stories, and funny stories. We want to feel human.”

Melania hosts private White House screening

Before the public premiere, Melania hosted a private screening of ‘Melania’ at the White House for close friends and family.

In a January 25 post on X, she described the evening as a meaningful milestone. “I am deeply humbled to have been surrounded by an inspiring room of friends, family, and cultural iconoclasts,” she wrote, calling the screening “a historic moment.”

“Our personal stories endure time and serve as a reminder of our mutual obligation to one another,” she added. “It was an honor to present my new film, ‘Melania’, ahead of its global launch.”

Documentary release amid political tensions

The documentary’s release comes during a turbulent period in the US, with the Trump administration facing mounting criticism over its ICE enforcement policies.

Tensions have escalated in recent weeks following the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minnesota. Local officials and community members have called for accountability and a transparent investigation as scrutiny over immigration enforcement continues.