At Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025, the presence of major political figures drew widespread attention — but so did their behavior.
Former President Joe Biden, who attended the service alongside his wife, Jill Biden, stirred controversy after being spotted taking selfies with other officials upon his arrival at St. Peter’s Square. Although no longer the sitting president, Biden and his wife were seated toward the back of the dignitaries’ section, in accordance with protocol. Nevertheless, some viewers were taken aback by what they considered inappropriate behavior at such a solemn event.
Comments criticizing Biden flooded social media. One user called it “extremely inappropriate” to snap selfies at a funeral, while others labeled it “disrespectful” and “messed up.” Photos of Biden posing with officials, including Ugandan Member of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, spread rapidly online. Tayebwa, who also posted a tribute to Pope Francis, shared a selfie he had taken with Biden, describing the occasion as a moment of profound personal significance.
The backlash highlighted the sensitivity surrounding the farewell to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 due to a stroke. His death marked the end of a remarkable papacy defined by humility, progressive stances, and a lifelong devotion to helping the marginalized. Following his passing, Biden expressed his grief publicly, calling Pope Francis “one of the most consequential leaders of our time” and reflecting on how honored he was to have met him.
While Biden’s selfie moment fueled online debate, Donald and Melania Trump’s attendance at the funeral sparked a separate wave of speculation. Footage showing the couple boarding a plane prior to their departure from the U.S. led to widespread rumors online suggesting that a “fake Melania” had accompanied Trump. Critics pointed out differences in hairstyle, posture, and footwear, noting that the woman seen did not resemble Melania’s usual appearance.
Despite the speculation, Donald and Melania Trump were seen at the funeral dressed in traditional mourning attire. Melania wore a long, tailored black coat, a black lace veil, and high-heeled shoes, while Donald donned a navy suit and a deep blue tie. During the service, they maintained a solemn, respectful demeanor. However, forensic lip reader Nicola Hickling later claimed that Melania had to prompt her husband to participate in the “sign of peace” ritual, whispering, “You should do it,” when he initially hesitated.
Following the service, Melania reflected on the day with a post marking her birthday. She shared that she had spent it attending the Pope’s funeral and praying for peace and healing, emphasizing the personal significance of the occasion.
Pope Francis’s funeral drew more than 200,000 pilgrims to St. Peter’s Square. His final moments, his last appearance blessing crowds on Easter Sunday, and the quiet reverence of his burial all underscored the deep love millions around the world held for him. In his will, Francis requested a simple burial at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, reflecting the humility he demonstrated throughout his life.
Tributes poured in globally, with mourners expressing sorrow but also gratitude for the pontiff’s leadership and compassion.
As spontaneous applause broke out in the square after the funeral, it was clear that Pope Francis’s legacy would continue to inspire — even amid the controversies and political theater that inevitably surrounded his final farewell.