Amazon has reportedly paid $40 million to license an upcoming documentary about Melania Trump, directed by Brett Ratner, for streaming on Prime Video. The deal also includes a follow-up docuseries of two to three episodes, according to Puck News, which first reported the figure.
The “behind the scenes” film began production in December and is expected to be released in theatres and on Prime Video later this year. Melania Trump, who serves as an executive producer on the project, is set to feature prominently. The exact portion of the payment that will go to her remains unclear.
Director Brett Ratner stepped back from Hollywood in 2018 amid allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women during the #MeToo movement. Amazon confirmed the documentary but did not comment on the financial details.
The project marks Melania Trump’s latest public relations venture, following the release of her memoir last year and a line of Christmas ornaments and jewellery. She has largely stayed out of the political spotlight during her husband Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, instead focusing on her personal brand.
The collaboration comes as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has sought to improve ties with the incoming president. Bezos recently met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and announced a $1 million donation to Trump’s inaugural fund, a shift from their strained relationship during Trump’s first term.
