Melania Trump's rare public appearance at a military parade in Washington on June 14 reignited long-standing conspiracy theories that the First Lady has been replaced by a body double, with viral social media posts suggesting she looked "detached," "different," and at one point, appeared to fall asleep. The event, held on President Donald Trump's birthday and designed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, quickly became a magnet for speculation online.
"It's not really Melania. I'm a Republican, voted for Trump every time he ran, and would again. But, this is a body double and not a very good one," one user posted on X. Another added: "I don't think that's Melania Trump... she seems nice and warm and older and wider... is that a body double?"
Melania, seated beside Trump during the parade, was photographed with her eyes closed and head lowered-an image that triggered a wave of ridicule and suspicion. "Melania looks bored," one viewer remarked. Another wrote: "This #parade is one of the most boring things on TV ever and absolutely a waste of lifetime! No wonder why half of the #administration nearly falls asleep... including... #Melania."
The theory that Melania has a "stand-in" has circulated since Trump's first term, with critics and conspiracy theorists often pointing to subtle differences in her facial expressions or demeanor during select appearances. Despite widespread debunking by fact-checkers, including Snopes, the claim has persisted-fueled in part by Melania's limited public presence and perceived emotional distance from her husband.
The White House previously addressed the rumors during Trump's first term, denouncing them as "fake news." In a rare statement, Melania's spokesperson called the speculation "shameful" and "beyond petty," adding: "Once again, we find ourselves consumed with a ridiculous non-story when we could be talking about the work the First Lady is doing on behalf of children."
The latest flare-up comes amid heightened scrutiny over the Trumps' relationship. Michael Wolff, author of several books on Trump, said on 60 Minutes Australia that Melania has grown increasingly estranged from the former president. "I asked someone who's very close to them, and I said, 'so what's going on?'" Wolff recounted. "And this person looked at me like I was a real dunce and then said, 'she hates his f------ guts.'"
Wolff added, "Well, other than the fact he has a long history of relationships with other women, porn stars and the like, and that he's not a very nice guy and he doesn't listen to anyone ever, so I doubt if he would listen to his wife... should I go on?"
Trump's team fired back swiftly, accusing the program of defamation. "It is unprofessional and irresponsible for 60 Minutes Australia to tarnish and defame the reputation of the First Lady of the United States," the White House said in a statement. "The details of Mrs. Trump's personal life and family should be respected as private. One must consider the potential harm caused by creating unfounded narratives solely to garner clicks."
During the parade itself, Trump and Melania were joined by Cabinet officials, GOP lawmakers, UFC president Dana White, and singer Lee Greenwood. The ceremony opened with a 21-gun salute and a performance of "Hail to the Chief," followed by flyovers from World War II-era aircraft and military parachutists landing near the White House.
