Social media users were quick to react after Melania Trump made a controversial comparison between her nude modeling and Renaissance art in a recent promotional video for her upcoming book.
In the video, the former first lady, 54, defended her decision to pose nude for magazines in the 1990s and 2000s. She questioned, “Why do I stand proudly behind my nude modeling work?” and challenged the media’s scrutiny of her choices, asking, “Are we no longer able to appreciate the beauty of the human body?”
As she spoke, the video showcased renowned Renaissance artworks, including Michelangelo’s David, Paul Cézanne’s Bathers, and John Collier’s Lady Godiva, but did not feature any of her nude photographs.
Melania referenced her 2000 GQ cover where she was featured lying on Donald Trump’s jet, as well as a 1995 spread in a French magazine—both predating her marriage to Trump.
In her voiceover, she continued, “Throughout history, master artists have revered the human shape, evoking profound emotions and admiration. We should honor our bodies and embrace the timeless tradition of using art as a powerful means of self-expression.”
While Melania’s nude photos resurfaced in the media during the 2016 election cycle, she has kept a low profile during her husband’s 2024 campaign, appearing briefly with him at the Republican National Convention in July. Although typically quiet on political matters, she has recently become more vocal as she prepares for the release of her memoir, Melania, set to launch on October 1.
However, her attempt to equate her commercial nude work with high art sparked a significant backlash online, with many users criticizing the former first lady for the comparison. Check out the video and some of the reactions below:
Watch the video and some of the responses below:
Melania Trump compares her nude modeling work to the finest art in order to sell her book. 😂
She failed to mention her nude photos expose a gap in her immigration story — The photo shoot was in NYC in 1995 and she couldn't legally work in the US until 1996, when she got her… pic.twitter.com/v3LeC6JS5V
— Outspoken™️ (@Out5p0ken) September 18, 2024
It's a little egotistical for Melania to compare her modeling work with some of the greatest works of art in the world. She may be as maniacally narcissistic as Trump.
— True Blue Sea 🌊🌊 🪷 🌊🌊 (@true_sea) September 18, 2024
What sad spin on using her body to gain money, citizenship, chain migration for her family & a life of luxury.
Good for her? #NoShameMelania 🤮— 🐾 hasfurrychildren 🐾 (@hasfurrychildre) September 18, 2024
— Rosemarie Lane 🇺🇸🏴☠️🏝🎣🐶 (@KeysMom1031) September 18, 2024
Yeah, just like how the pics in Penthouse are “art.”
— Robert Taylor (@unrealbobtaylor) September 18, 2024
I was wondering “why now?” of all times. Of course, she’s selling a book.
— Mel 🇺🇦🌻🌻 (@mel33) September 18, 2024
we’re not buying her bs rationale
— Big Nick 🇺🇸 🇺🇦 🏴☠️ (@BigNickR10) September 18, 2024
Melania is trying to make money. This is not a statement. It’s an advertisement. It’s about the grift.
— JustAMom (@amyschwert) September 18, 2024
I knew that book was gonna be full of fanciful revisionist history.
— Sussexdotcom (@JusticeNtRvenge) September 18, 2024
I knew that book was gonna be full of fanciful revisionist history.
— Sussexdotcom (@JusticeNtRvenge) September 18, 2024
I don’t give a fuck if you posed naked on an ostrich’s back while selling dog treats, I care that your husband is an adjudicated rapist who bragged about sexually assaulting women.
— Jo (@JoJoFromJerz) September 18, 2024
Stormy Daniels stands by her nude modeling as well..
— Irishrygirl (@irishrygirl) September 18, 2024
This is pathetic.
— Damon Gonzalez (@TheyCallMeDaymz) September 18, 2024
😂😂😭 This isn’t a Saturday Night Live skit?
— President of Gus Walz Fan Club (@JuliaNotAmused) September 18, 2024
