First Lady Melania Trump made a high-profile appearance at the funeral of Pope Francis over the weekend, standing beside President Donald J. Trump in a moment of global significance. But as the world gathered to honor the late pontiff, speculation erupted online — once again — suggesting the woman representing the United States as First Lady might not be Melania at all.

The solemn ceremony, held in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, brought together world leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures from around the globe. Melania, dressed in a black blazer dress and wearing a traditional mourning veil, appeared composed and dignified as she paid her respects alongside her husband. Still, social media platforms lit up with users questioning whether the woman seen in Rome was truly the First Lady.

“That’s not Melania. The makeup, the cheekbones — completely different,” one user posted on X. Another wrote, “Here we go again. Fake Melania back in the spotlight.”

Video clips showing the First Couple en route to Rome only added fuel to the fire, with critics pointing to her sunglasses and coat as part of an alleged effort to disguise a stand-in. These claims echo conspiracy theories that date back to Trump’s first term, when a fringe group of online users speculated that Melania was sometimes replaced by a lookalike during official events — an idea that has never been substantiated.

Despite the ongoing speculation online, Melania Trump has continued to fulfill her duties as First Lady with poise and discretion. Her appearance at the Pope’s funeral underscores her prominent role on the world stage, representing the United States at one of the most important religious events in recent memory.

Among the mourners were Prince William — attending on behalf of King Charles III, who is recovering from health issues — along with numerous presidents, prime ministers, and faith leaders.

The funeral itself marked a break from tradition. Pope Francis, known for his humility, chose not to be buried in the ornate crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica. Instead, he was interred at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in a modest wooden coffin, eschewing the elaborate, multi-layered sarcophagi used for previous popes.

As millions around the world mourned the loss of the beloved pope, preparations are already underway for the next chapter in the Catholic Church’s leadership. Cardinals are expected to meet within weeks to begin the conclave process that will select the new pope.

Still, amid the solemnity of the occasion, Melania Trump’s presence — and the renewed wave of online conspiracy theories — once again highlighted the intense public fascination surrounding the First Lady.

Sources: The Mirror US