Donald Trump Praises Melania’s Documentary Ahead of Release

Donald Trump has expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming documentary about his wife, Melania Trump. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on January 12, 2026, he shared that he has viewed portions of the film titled Melania, which is set to premiere exclusively in theaters on January 30, 2026. “It’s incredible,” the former president stated, reflecting on the documentary’s anticipated impact.

Trump noted that he is not surprised by the attention the film has garnered. He compared its potential success to Melania’s previous book, which became a bestseller. “This is a movie, and it seems to be captivating a lot of people’s attention,” he added.

Documentary Offers Insight Into Melania Trump’s Journey

The documentary aims to provide a unique perspective on Melania’s life, exploring her experiences as the First Lady of the United States. In a statement, Melania, aged 55, described the film as a pivotal chapter in her life, stating, “For the first time, global audiences are invited into theaters to witness this pivotal chapter unfold—a private, unfiltered look as I navigate family, business, and philanthropy on my remarkable journey.”

Directed by Brett Ratner, the documentary marks Ratner’s return to filmmaking following allegations of sexual misconduct in 2017, which he has consistently denied. According to reports from Variety, Amazon secured the rights to the film for approximately $40 million, emphasizing the significant investment in the project.

The premiere of Melania is scheduled for the newly renamed Trump-Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. on January 29, 2026, with both Donald and Melania Trump expected to attend. Additional premiere events are planned in cities including New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Orange County, California.

Controversy Surrounds Venue Name Change

The decision to rename the Kennedy Center has sparked considerable debate. Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary, announced the change via social media, claiming that the venue’s board unanimously voted to honor Donald Trump for his contributions to the center’s reconstruction and reputation. Leavitt’s statement emphasized the significance of this honor for both Trump and the legacy of President John F. Kennedy.

The name change has drawn criticism from several members of the Kennedy family. Maria Shriver, the niece of John F. Kennedy, expressed her disapproval on Instagram, stating, “It is beyond comprehension that this sitting president has sought to rename this great memorial dedicated to President Kennedy.” Shriver’s remarks reflect widespread concern regarding the implications of combining the names of the two presidents.

As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for Melania, which promises to reveal an intimate look at a figure often in the public eye yet seldom fully understood. The film is poised to captivate audiences worldwide, reflecting the complexities of her role and the influence of her husband during his presidency.