Biden Criticized for Taking Selfies at Pope Francis’s Funeral
Former President Joe Biden faced backlash after taking selfies at Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025. He and First Lady Jill Biden attended the service at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, joining many dignitaries paying their final respects.
Since the Bidens were no longer heads of state, officials seated them at the back of the foreign dignitaries’ section.
Biden’s Selfies Spark Outrage
Upon arriving, Biden snapped selfies with other attendees. Many viewers considered this behavior inappropriate for such a solemn event. Social media quickly lit up with disapproval.
One X user wrote, “Snapping selfies at the pope’s funeral is extremely inappropriate.” Another added, “Selfies at a funeral is a lot disrespectful.”
Comments kept pouring in. “Wow, selfies at a funeral. That’s messed up. There’s a time and place for that kind of thing,” someone remarked. Others called it a “disrespect” to the Pope and accused Biden of using the event for “photo ops.”
Ugandan Official Also Posted Selfies
Among those photographed with Biden was Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa. Tayebwa shared the pictures in a tribute post on X.
“Together with my sister the Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, we joined world leaders and the faithful for the burial of His Holiness Pope Francis today,” he wrote.
He added, “I’m glad I had the chance to bid farewell to my spiritual leader. May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Biden’s Tribute to Pope Francis
Following Pope Francis’s death on April 21, 2025, Biden posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. He shared a photo from one of their meetings and expressed deep sadness.
“He was unlike any who came before him,” Biden wrote. He praised Pope Francis as one of the “most consequential leaders” of our time and added, “I am better for having known him.”
Former U.S. President Joe Biden arrives at the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. | Source: Getty Images
Melania Trump Sparks “Fake Melania” Theories
Meanwhile, Donald and Melania Trump’s journey to the funeral also grabbed attention—but for a different reason. On April 25, 2025, cameras captured them leaving the U.S. for Rome. However, footage triggered a wave of “fake Melania” theories.
Doubts About Melania’s Identity
Several netizens claimed the woman seen with Trump didn’t look like Melania.
“Definitely not Melania; hair too light and no heels. Melania always wears heels!” one user noted.
Another added, “It sure doesn’t look like her—the forehead and jawline seem different.”
More commenters pointed to differences in body language, with one saying, “She walks too loosely. Melania usually has a poised, rigid walk.”
The Trumps at the Funeral
Despite the online buzz, the Trumps arrived in Rome and attended the funeral on April 26. Melania wore a traditional black ensemble with a long coat, lace veil, lace gloves, and a subtle cross necklace. Donald Trump appeared in a navy blue suit with a deep blue tie and a prominent American flag pin.
Throughout the service, the couple maintained serious, respectful expressions. Photos captured them deep in thought during the solemn event.
Social Media Keeps Buzzing
Even after their appearance, theories persisted.
“Melania looks different. Is it really her?” one viewer asked.
Another chimed in, “What happened to her face?” while someone else remarked, “Her face looks like it’s melting off.”
Private Tribute and a Special Birthday
Following the public service, Donald and Melania visited St. Peter’s Basilica privately to pay their respects. Photos showed them standing before the late Pontiff’s casket, flanked by Swiss Guards.
Melania kept her funeral attire intact, maintaining a look of deep reverence.
Handshake Prompt at Mass
During the Mass, world leaders exchanged a “sign of peace.” Initially, Donald Trump hesitated. However, according to forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling, Melania urged him to participate.
She reportedly whispered, “You should do it,” encouraging him to shake hands with French President Emmanuel Macron.
Trump eventually complied, muttering, “Oh, alright,” before extending his hand.
Melania Reflects on the Day
Later, Melania posted a birthday reflection on Instagram.
“I had the honor of attending Pope Francis’ funeral, on this day, where I prayed for the healing of those who are suffering and for peace in the world,” she shared.
Vatican Confirms Cause of Death
Finally, the Vatican confirmed Pope Francis died from a stroke that led to a coma and an “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”
