In 2005, she was featured in an advertisement for Aflac insurance along with the Aflac mascot, a duck. At the time, comedian Gilbert Gottfried voiced the duck. In the advertisement, Melania and the duck switch personalities through a Frankenstein-like mad experiment. At the end of the footage, she awakens and quacks “Aflac” in Gottfried’s voice.
Melania filmed the commercial in the year that she and Donald were newlyweds. According to Adweek, Melania said (of the commercial), “I am very excited to make my acting debut in the latest Aflac commercial. Donald is known for saying ‘You’re fired’; maybe I will be known for saying ‘Aflac.’ “
Made for Modeling
Melania Trump's statuesque figure, standing tall at 5'11" (1.80 meters), made her destined for a career in modeling. After making the move to New York, she found herself sharing an apartment with photographer Matthew Atanian, which further immersed her in the world of fashion and photography. Her undeniable beauty and grace caught the attention of renowned publications like "Vanity Fair," "Vogue," and the coveted "Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue."
Collaborating with these prestigious magazines solidified her presence in the industry and allowed her to showcase her versatility and ability to captivate audiences with her elegant and photogenic allure.
Making Waves
Melania Trump's striking presence graced the covers of various esteemed magazines, solidifying her status as a sought-after model. Her impressive portfolio included notable publications such as Harper's Bazaar (Bulgaria), Ocean Drive, In Style Weddings, New York Magazine, Avenue, Allure, Vanity Fair (Italy), Vogue (following her marriage to Donald Trump), and even GQ (UK).
Each cover showcased Melania's timeless beauty, poise, and ability to effortlessly captivate audiences with her sophisticated charm. Moreover, it is worth noting that Melania's journey to the United States began in August 1996, when she entered the country on a business visitor visa, as confirmed by her lawyer, Michael Wildes. This marked the beginning of her remarkable story in America.
Meeting Donald
In 1996, Melania Trump embarked on a new chapter of her life by relocating to the vibrant city of New York. It was there, at a glitzy Fashion Week party in September 1998, that fate intervened and brought her face-to-face with her future husband, Donald Trump. The event, hosted by Paolo Zampolli, took place at the renowned Kit Kat Club in Times Square. At the time, Donald Trump was still legally married to Marla Maples, although they had been separated since May 1997.
He attended the party accompanied by another date, Celina Midelfart. Seizing an opportune moment when Celina stepped away momentarily, Donald approached Melania with the intention of securing her phone number. However, Melania, displaying her independent spirit, declined his advances. This initial encounter would eventually pave the way for a future romantic connection between the two.
On Again, Off Again, and Back on
After their initial encounter, Melania Trump and Donald Trump went on their first date at the trendy Greenwich Village restaurant, Mooma. However, the relationship hit a bump, and Melania decided to end it soon after. Fate had other plans in store for them. After spending a few months apart, the couple found their way back to each other, rekindling their connection.
In 1999, their relationship gained national attention when they appeared together for an interview on "The Howard Stern Show." This further thrust them into the spotlight. Their fame skyrocketed in 2004 when Donald launched his immensely popular reality show, "The Apprentice," which featured contestants vying for his approval based on their business acumen, bringing them even more recognition on a national scale.