Melania Trump Monetizes First Lady Role for Millions
Melania Trump, during her time as First Lady, has found ways to monetize her role, most notably through a significant $40 million documentary deal. Scheduled to premiere on January 30, 2026, the film aims to provide insights into her life during the White House transition.
Documentary Deal and Public Perception
The documentary titled “Melania” is primarily focused on the 20 days leading up to her inauguration. It reflects her view of the challenges faced during that transition, which she shared in an early 2025 Fox News interview.
Despite this venture, Melania Trump holds the distinction of having the lowest approval rating for a First Lady, resting at just 36% by the end of 2025. This figure follows a historic low of 42% when she left office in January 2021, based on a Siena College study.
Transformation of the East Wing
The East Wing of the White House, formerly a cherished space for First Ladies, is undergoing demolition, a move that has sparked controversy. While Melania expressed concerns about this decision, it ultimately did not prevent the transformation of the space into a lavish ballroom.
- Former East Wing purpose: Office for First Ladies
- Current project: Massive ballroom funded by donors
Public Engagements and Initiatives
As part of her public engagements, Melania Trump has restarted her Be Best campaign, which seeks to address online bullying. She has also supported various legislative efforts, including the Take It Down Act and executive orders focused on children in foster care.
However, her activities have often appeared inconsistent. Over the first 108 days of her second term, she spent fewer than 14 days at the White House.
Future Ventures
Melania Trump’s focus appears to lean heavily toward personal branding and wealth accumulation. With her production company announced in November 2025, future projects are expected to expand on her current ventures.
As history unfolds, the legacy of Melania Trump may primarily be viewed through the lens of celebrity culture rather than traditional First Lady stewardship.
