Melania Trump Documentary Director Brett Ratner Faces Controversy Over Sexual Harassment Claims and Epstein Files Link
Brett Ratner, the Hollywood director selected to lead the upcoming documentary about former First Lady Melania Trump, is facing significant controversy due to past sexual harassment allegations and his recent appearance in the infamous Jeffrey Epstein files. The documentary, titled 'Melania,' is scheduled for release on January 30, 2026, and is backed by Melania Trump herself as an executive producer, with a reported budget of approximately $40 million.
Return to Filmmaking Amidst Past Allegations
Ratner's involvement in the Melania documentary marks his return to high-profile filmmaking after years largely out of the spotlight. This comeback follows multiple allegations of sexual misconduct that surfaced in 2017 during the height of the #MeToo movement. At that time, six women, including prominent actresses Olivia Munn and Natasha Henstridge, accused Ratner of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior spanning several years.
The allegations included reports of unwanted sexual advances and misconduct occurring both on film sets and in private settings. In response to these accusations, Ratner's agency and various industry partners distanced themselves from him, leading to his withdrawal from numerous major projects. Throughout this period, Ratner has consistently denied all allegations, and notably, no criminal charges were ever brought against him in connection with these cases.
Connection to Jeffrey Epstein Files
In December 2025, Ratner's name resurfaced in public discourse when a photograph of him appeared in a batch of documents released by the Department of Justice, commonly referred to as the Epstein files. The image shows Ratner alongside Jean-Luc Brunel, a French modeling agent who was a known associate of the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
It is important to note that Epstein died in prison while facing charges related to child sexual abuse. Authorities have clarified that Ratner's appearance in these files does not indicate any wrongdoing or criminal allegations against him specifically. The inclusion of individuals in the Epstein documents alone does not constitute proof of illegal conduct, according to official statements.
Documentary Details and Preview
The 'Melania' documentary is said to chronicle the 20 days leading up to former President Donald Trump's second inauguration, offering an intimate look at the life and experiences of the former First Lady during this pivotal period. The project has already generated considerable attention, with a private screening held at the White House attended by political figures, entertainment executives, and Ratner himself.
Ratner rose to prominence in the 1990s as the director of successful franchise films such as the 'Rush Hour' series and 'X-Men: The Last Stand.' His work on the Melania film represents his most significant project since the 2017 allegations, potentially signaling a career resurgence despite the ongoing controversies surrounding his past.
The documentary's development and Ratner's involvement continue to spark debate within both political and entertainment circles, highlighting the complex intersection of celebrity, politics, and accountability in contemporary media projects.
