The world paused in mourning this weekend as Pope Francis was laid to rest — but it wasn’t only the somber farewell that captured global attention.
Donald Trump’s choice of attire stirred immediate controversy, Melania’s actions left many scratching their heads, and a frosty exchange with French President Emmanuel Macron set tongues wagging. Adding to the storm, President Joe Biden landed in hot water for a move that quickly drew criticism.
Wildly inappropriate
It was a profoundly emotional weekend at the Vatican as the world united to honor the life of Pope Francis, with a historic funeral held in St. Peter’s Square on April 26, 2025. Amid the sea of mourners — from world leaders to devoted Catholics — an unexpected incident involving former U.S. President Joe Biden quickly stole headlines.
Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, drew sharp criticism after being spotted snapping selfies upon his arrival. The gesture, widely deemed inappropriate for the somber occasion, ignited a wave of backlash across social media platforms.
“Taking selfies at the Pope’s funeral? Seriously inappropriate,” one user wrote on X.
Another chimed in, “Selfies at a funeral… unbelievable.”
Though no longer serving as President, Joe Biden was among the high-profile guests in attendance, seated toward the rear of the foreign dignitaries’ section. Joining him in the impromptu photo session was Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa, who later posted one of the pictures online in a heartfelt tribute, referring to Pope Francis as his “spiritual leader.”
However, for many on social media, it wasn’t the sentiment behind the snapshots that caused a stir — it was the setting. One person remarked, “Of course Biden’s turning the Pope’s funeral into a photo op,” triggering accusations of political opportunism.
Elsewhere, another couple managed to capture attention — though for reasons entirely unrelated.
Many critics pointed out that funerals are sacred, solemn occasions meant for reflection and respect — not for taking personal photos. Snapping casual or posed pictures in such a setting is often seen as a sign of poor judgment and can feel deeply disrespectful to both the grieving loved ones and the memory of the person being honored.
Even if well-intentioned, using a funeral as a backdrop for social media posts or public image moments can easily be perceived as insensitive and out of touch with the gravity of the event.
The ‘Fake Melania’ Conspiracy
Donald and Melania Trump were also in attendance at the funeral, but it didn’t take long for the infamous “Fake Melania” rumors to resurface. A video of the pair boarding a plane in the U.S. the day before the ceremony quickly went viral, with online sleuths insisting something about Melania seemed… off.
“Definitely not Melania — her hair’s too light and no heels,” one user commented.
Another added, “Her face looks like it’s melting.”
Despite the chatter, Melania made a poised appearance at the Vatican, dressed in a classic black coat, heels, and a lace veil. But even during the solemn service, fresh drama unfolded. A forensic lip reader speaking to The Daily Mail claimed Melania was seen nudging Trump during Mass, urging him to take part in the “sign of peace.” “You should do it,” she reportedly whispered.
“Oh, alright,” Trump mumbled before awkwardly shaking hands with French President Emmanuel Macron. Later, in a personal Instagram post, Melania revealed that the funeral had fallen on her birthday.
“I prayed for healing and peace in the world,” she shared.
Sudden clapping
Pope Francis, who died on April 21 at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke, had been struggling with health issues for months.
Despite his serious challenges, he kept up his work until the very end, giving his last public blessing just one day before passing away.
As his body lay in state, mourners filled St. Peter’s Square — some wrapped in Argentine flags, others holding rosaries. When the final prayer was said, the crowd burst into applause — a heartfelt goodbye to the first pope from the Americas. But while the world mourned, the drama around Biden’s selfies and the ongoing Melania rumors reminded everyone that even at the funeral of a global figure, controversy isn’t far behind.
At the end of the day, is snapping a selfie at a funeral truly something to make a fuss about? Some believe it’s a sign of disrespect, while others argue it’s simply a way to capture a moment, even during a solemn occasion. Does a quick photo really diminish the importance of the event, or is it just a product of today’s world? What’s your take — should selfies have a place at funerals, or are they better left out?