The Bad PlaceVariety | Jeff Bezos Defends ‘Melania’ Documentary as a ‘Very Good Business Decision,’ Denies It Was a ‘Way of Buying Influence’ With Trump Administration by Todd Spangler
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Jeff Bezos told CNBC that Amazon MGM Studios’ $40 million purchase and $35 million marketing spend on the “Melania” documentary was a straightforward business decision—not an attempt to buy influence with the Trump administration—and he denied any personal involvement in the deal. He said the film performed well in theaters and on streaming, despite grossing only about $16.6 million worldwide, and dismissed claims that the acquisition was a “bribery” scheme. Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, have criticized the deal as an over‑priced, pay‑to‑play arrangement, noting Amazon’s offer was $26 million above Disney’s and urging an investigation under federal anti‑bribery law. Amazon’s vice‑president of public policy responded that the film was licensed after a competitive bidding process because of its cultural and historical relevance, not for political purposes.
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Jeff Bezos Defends 'Melania' Documentary as 'Very Good Business Decision,' Denies It Was Way to Buy Influence
Jeff Bezos insists that Amazon MGM Studios' decision to acquire and release "Melania," a documentary about the First Lady, was smart business -- and not an attempt to curry favor with her husband.