Amazon to air two-part Melania Trump docu-series on Prime Video from 20 November

The announcement

Amazon announced on Friday, 6 November, a two-part docu-series titled "Melania, The Series", which will begin airing on Prime Video on 20 November. The show covers the period after the 47th Presidential Inauguration in January 2025, and Amazon said it includes events recorded after that date. Brett Ratner directed both episodes, having also directed the feature-length documentary "Melania". Melania Trump executive produces the project, and an Amazon spokesperson said the original licensing deal for the film also covered the new series. A trailer was released on Friday, 6 November.

Amazon's press release describes the series in these terms:

“MELANIA, The Series reveals never-before-told stories, offering unprecedented insight into Melania Trump's life.”

The feature film and its cost

The series follows the documentary "Melania", which Amazon acquired earlier in 2026 for a reported $40 million. Amazon also spent a reported $35 million marketing the film, according to the Washington Post. The film collected $16 million in global ticket sales, according to Box Office Mojo, a figure far below the combined reported outlay for acquisition and marketing.

Reported acquisition cost40

Reported marketing spend35

Global ticket sales16

Reported acquisition cost

40 USD millions

Reported marketing spend

35 USD millions

Global ticket sales

16 USD millions

Data from the article text

The film drew criticism that Amazon was seeking to curry favor with the Trump administration, and several Democrats opened an investigation. Jeff Bezos, who owns The Washington Post, has denied that the film was an effort to win influence and said it was a business decision.

What the series covers

La Razon reports that the first episode shows Melania Trump setting priorities as she prepares to become first lady. Inside the White House, her trust in those around her is tested, and she must protect her loved ones while dealing with the demands of power. The second episode focuses on the moments after the inauguration, using footage the streamer describes as previously unseen. The series is produced as a two-part program, with Ratner directing both installments.

Criticism and next steps

The Telegraph expects Amazon and Bezos to face fresh claims of currying favour after following the film with another Trump documentary. Amazon has framed the new show as content never shared with the public before. The series premieres on Prime Video on 20 November.