At Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025, the behavior of major political figures drew significant attention. Former President Joe Biden, attending with his wife, Jill, faced backlash for taking selfies with officials at St. Peter’s Square, which many deemed inappropriate for such a solemn occasion.

This sparked a wave of criticism on social media, especially after Ugandan MP Thomas Tayebwa shared a selfie with Biden.

Meanwhile, Donald and Melania Trump’s attendance led to speculation about a “fake Melania” due to differences in her appearance noted by critics. Despite the rumors, the couple maintained a solemn demeanor at the funeral, although a lip reader claimed Melania had to prompt Trump during the “sign of peace” ritual.

Pope Francis’s funeral drew over 200,000 pilgrims, reflecting the deep love and respect he garnered throughout his life. His request for a simple burial underscored his humility, and as applause broke out after the service, it was clear that his legacy would continue to inspire, despite the surrounding controversies.