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In late February 2026, an image purportedly showing former U.S. First Lady Melania Trump pole dancing for Jeffrey Epstein circulated widely across social media platforms, particularly Facebook. The image emerged shortly after the U.S. Department of Justice released more than 3 million files related to the disgraced financier in late January.
Several social media posts claimed the photograph came from a redacted section of the Epstein files. One Facebook user, identified as David Vandygriff, shared the image with implications that it represented genuine evidence from the recently released documents.
However, the image is entirely fabricated. The earliest instance of the photograph appeared on February 9 on British artist Alison Jackson’s Instagram account. Jackson is known for creating “convincingly realistic photographs, films and sculpture depicting celebrities doing things in private,” according to her professional website.
Jackson’s original Instagram post included a disclaimer stating it was a “fictional image” with “no factual claims implied.” The artist commonly produces such realistic-looking but fabricated images featuring celebrities and public figures, including previous works involving Donald Trump and Epstein that have also been debunked by fact-checkers.
A comprehensive search through the DOJ’s released Epstein files confirmed the image is not present in any of the documents. Additionally, no credible news organizations or media outlets have reported on such a photograph, which would certainly generate significant coverage were it authentic.
Technical analysis of the image revealed multiple inconsistencies that point to manipulation or artificial generation. The shadows appear inconsistent, with unnatural light patterns behind the female figure that don’t properly interact with Epstein’s seated image in the background. Close examination also shows the woman’s fingers appear oddly truncated around the pole, while shadows on the bed between the pole and her legs have no clear light source.
Multiple AI-detection tools were employed to assess the image’s authenticity. Tools such as Hive Moderation and Zero-GPT indicated a high probability the image contained AI-generated or deepfake elements. While another detection service, Sight Engine, suggested it might not be AI-generated, researchers emphasize that current AI-detection software remains imperfect and results should be viewed with appropriate skepticism.
When contacted for verification, Jackson’s representatives have previously acknowledged her artistic process. Regarding a similar debunked image of Trump and Epstein, Jackson’s spokesperson explained: “The image was created by Alison Jackson, she uses lookalikes of the public figures and makes them look realistic, she also uses AI – it’s a bit of both.”
This fabricated image joins a growing collection of false claims connecting Melania Trump to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell. Fact-checkers have previously investigated other manipulated images allegedly showing Melania with Maxwell and unsubstantiated claims that she worked as an escort before meeting Donald Trump.
The rapid spread of this falsified image highlights the ongoing challenges of misinformation surrounding the Epstein case, particularly as the Justice Department continues to release documents under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. While public interest in these files remains high, the circulation of fabricated content undermines legitimate scrutiny of the documents.
As digital manipulation and AI-generated content become increasingly sophisticated, distinguishing between authentic and fabricated images requires greater vigilance from social media users and more robust detection methods from technology platforms.
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10 Comments
I’m glad the Disinformation Commission was able to debunk this fabricated image. We need more efforts to counter the proliferation of misinformation, especially around high-profile figures. Maintaining journalistic integrity is crucial.
This is a timely reminder of the need to be vigilant about the information we consume and share online. Manipulated media can have serious consequences, so it’s crucial that we fact-check claims, especially those involving public figures. Responsible journalism is key.
This is clearly a doctored image meant to spread misinformation. We shouldn’t give any credence to fabricated content like this, regardless of the source. Let’s focus on verified facts instead of unsubstantiated claims.
Fabricated images like this one are concerning, as they can sway public opinion and undermine trust in institutions. I’m glad the Disinformation Commission is working to identify and debunk this kind of misinformation.
While the details around the Epstein case are deeply troubling, we must be careful not to fall for manipulated media that lacks credible sourcing. Fact-checking should be the priority, not spreading unverified claims.
Absolutely. Maintaining objectivity and focusing on verified information is crucial, especially when it comes to sensitive political matters. Unsubstantiated claims, even if sensational, should be approached with caution.
While these kinds of salacious images can be eye-catching, we have to be careful about falling for manipulated media. It’s important to rely on reputable, fact-based reporting when it comes to sensitive political topics.
Agreed. Spreading unverified information, even if it seems plausible, can do more harm than good. Fact-checking should be the priority here.
This is a good example of why we should be skeptical of sensational images that emerge, especially on social media. Unless there is clear, verifiable evidence, we can’t assume they depict reality. Responsible reporting is key.
I appreciate the Disinformation Commission’s efforts to debunk this fabricated image. In an era of widespread misinformation, it’s important that we rely on reputable, fact-based sources when it comes to high-profile political figures and events.