Donald Trump's involvement in the entertainment industry spans various forms, showcasing his versatility beyond his business and political roles. From cameo appearances in films like Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and TV shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, to hosting his reality show The Apprentice, Trump established a notable presence in popular culture.
His larger-than-life persona and business acumen often translated into his on-screen roles, capturing attention and curiosity. However, his appearances garnered mixed responses from audiences, with some appreciating the novelty and others viewing them as extensions of his public image. His transition from entertainment to politics further colored public perceptions, leading to a nuanced reflection on the intersection of celebrity and leadership. Let's look into some of Trump's cameo appearances over the years.
10 Donald Trump - Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) - Himself
Donald Trump appeared in the 1992 film Home Alone 2: Lost in New York as himself. In the scene, Trump is seen walking through the lobby of the Plaza Hotel in New York City, where the film is set. Kevin McCallister asks Trump for directions to the lobby, and Trump gives him directions. Trump's cameo is brief, but it is memorable. It is one of the most iconic scenes in the movie, and it is often parodied or referenced in other media.
Trump's cameo in Home Alone 2 was not originally planned. The filmmakers were originally going to use a different businessman in the scene, but Trump insisted on being in the movie. He reportedly agreed to do the cameo for free, as long as the filmmakers allowed him to wear his own clothes and give his own lines.
Trump's cameo in the film has been praised by some critics for being a self-aware and humorous performance. Others have criticized it for being self-indulgent and narcissistic. Regardless of one's opinion of Trump, his cameo in Home Alone 2 is a part of the film's legacy. It is a scene that is often remembered and quoted by fans of the movie.
9 Donald Trump - Zoolander (2001) - Himself
Donald Trump made a cameo appearance in the 2001 comedy film Zoolander as himself. In the scene, Trump is seen at a VH1 Fashion Awards event, where he interviews Derek Zoolander and Hansel McDonald. Trump asks Zoolander and Hansel about their thoughts on male modeling, and they give him some nonsensical answers. Trump then declares, "without Derek Zoolander, male modeling wouldn't be what it is today."
Trump's cameo in Zoolander is a self-aware parody of his own public persona. He is portrayed as a vain and narcissistic businessman who is obsessed with his own image. His interview with Zoolander and Hansel is a hilarious example of his cluelessness about the fashion industry. Trump's cameo in the film was well-received by critics and audiences alike. It was praised for being funny and on-point.
8 Donald Trump - Sex And The City (2000) - Himself
Donald Trump's cameo in Sex and the City is a satirical take on his real-life persona. He is portrayed as a wealthy, arrogant businessman who is out of touch with reality. His date with Samantha is a disaster, and he ultimately ends up being rejected by her. In the season 3 episode "The Man, the Myth, the Mr. Big," Samantha Jones goes on a date with Donald Trump. The date is not going well, as Trump is more interested in talking about himself than getting to know Samantha.
The cameo was well-received by critics and audiences alike. The cameo is a perfect example of how he can be both entertaining and infuriating at the same time. He is a master of self-promotion, and he knows how to make himself the center of attention. However, he can also be oblivious to his own flaws, and he often comes across as arrogant and self-centered.
7 Donald Trump - Spin City (1997) - Himself
In the season 2 episode "The Paul Lassiter Story," Donald Trump appears as a potential investor in the city of New York. He meets with Mike Flaherty, the mayor of New York City, to discuss his plans for the city. Trump is immediately impressed by Flaherty's energy and enthusiasm, and he agrees to invest in the city. However, he also makes it clear that he expects to be involved in the decision-making process.
Trump's cameo in Spin City is a satirical take on his real-life persona. He is portrayed as a wealthy, arrogant businessman who is out of touch with reality. His investment in the city is motivated by his own personal gain, and he has no interest in helping the people of New York.
6 Donald Trump - The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air (1994) - Himself
In the season 4 episode "For Sale by Owner," Donald Trump appears as a potential buyer of the Banks family home. He meets with Will Smith and Carlton Banks to discuss the property. Trump is impressed by the house, and he offers to buy it for a million dollars. However, Will and Carlton are hesitant to sell the house, as it is full of memories for them.
Trump eventually convinces Will and Carlton to sell the house, and he moves in shortly after that. However, he quickly realizes that he is not cut out for suburban life. He misses the excitement of New York City, and he is constantly complaining about the neighbors.
5 Donald Trump - Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010) - Himself
In his brief cameo, Donald Trump appears as himself in a scene where he interacts with the film's protagonist, Jacob Moore, played by Shia LaBeouf, during a charity event. The scene takes place at the 2008 "Bretton Woods Symposium," a fictional event in the film.
Trump's appearance in the movie is relatively short, and he offers some words of advice and commentary on the financial world to the main character. His cameo is one of several celebrity appearances in the film, which also features figures like Warren Buffett and Charlie Sheen, reprising his role from the original Wall Street movie.
4 Donald Trump - Two Weeks Notice (2002) - Himself
In Two Weeks Notice, Donald Trump appears as himself in a brief scene. The cameo takes place during a charity auction scene where Lucy Kelson is bidding on a lunch date with George Wade.
As the bidding intensifies, Donald Trump, who is seated at a nearby table, interjects with a humorous comment about the escalating price of the lunch date. This adds a light and comedic element to the scene. Trump's cameo is relatively lighthearted and plays into the film's comedic tone.
3 Donald Trump - Le Cirque: A Table In Heaven (2007) - Himself
In the documentary film, Donald Trump is shown dining at Le Cirque and discussing his experiences with the restaurant. He talks about his fondness for the establishment and its significance in the culinary and social scene of New York City. Trump's appearance in the documentary provides a glimpse into his relationship with the restaurant and its owner, Sirio Maccioni.
2 Donald Trump - Small Potatoes: Who Killed the USFL? (2009) - Himself
Donald Trump's cameo in Small Potatoes: Who Killed the USFL? encapsulates the compelling narrative of a sports league's rise and fall, interwoven with the persona of a determined businessman whose actions had far-reaching consequences beyond the football field.
Trump's cameo offers viewers a deeper understanding of his business strategies, risk-taking, and the complex web of events that unfolded within the USFL's journey. The documentary provides a nuanced exploration of the collision between ambition and reality, highlighting how individual decisions can shape the trajectory of an entire organization.
1 Donald Trump - The Little Rascals (1994) - Waldo's father
Donald Trump's unexpected cameo in the 1994 family comedy The Little Rascals adds an intriguing layer of surprise to the film's lighthearted charm. His appearance serves as a delightful wink to the audience. As the owner of the exclusive He-Man Woman Haters Club, he presides over a pivotal scene where the iconic clubhouse sign contest unfolds.
In an unexpected yet perfectly fitting role, Trump's presence brings an air of authority to the clubhouse proceedings. His involvement adds a touch of celebrity mystique that contrasts with the innocence of the young cast.
