Former President Donald Trump has expressed his disapproval of the recently released film “The Apprentice,” which portrays his life and career in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s. Trump took to Truth Social to criticize the movie, calling it “FAKE and CLASSLESS.” He accused the film of being a defamatory and politically motivated hatchet job aimed at undermining the “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN” movement. Trump specifically objected to the depiction of his relationship with his first wife, Ivana Trump, whom he described as a kind and wonderful person. The film, written by Gabriel Sherman and directed by Ali Abbasi, portrays Trump’s relationship with Ivana, including an alleged scene where he raped her.
“The Apprentice” stars Sebastian Stan as Trump and was released on October 11. The film has been met with controversy due to its portrayal of Trump’s relationship with Ivana, including the scene where he allegedly raped her. Ivana had previously made the claim in a 1990 court deposition during their divorce, but recanted the allegation in 2015. Ivana clarified that while she felt violated by Trump during their sexual encounters, she did not intend for her words to be interpreted literally or criminally. Trump’s campaign communications director, Steven Cheung, denounced the film as “garbage” and “pure fiction,” claiming that the filmmakers fabricated scenes and created fake stories to fit a false narrative about Trump.
Sherman, the writer of “The Apprentice,” has defended the film, stating that all the scenes are based on records of real events. He noted that Ivana’s descriptions of the alleged rape were even more graphic and brutal than what was portrayed in the movie. Cheung had previously announced the campaign’s intention to file a lawsuit over the film. Trump has criticized the movie as a malicious defamation that should not have been released and accused the filmmakers of creating a false narrative to tarnish his image and political movement. He has specifically targeted Sherman, calling him a “lowlife and talentless hack” who ignored the positive aspects of his relationship with Ivana.
In response to Trump’s criticism, Sherman has defended the film as a portrayal of real events based on court records. The movie chronicles Trump’s rise to prominence in New York City, his relationships, and his business dealings during the 1970s and 1980s. Trump has denounced the film as politically motivated and designed to hurt his reputation and his political movement. He has expressed disappointment in the portrayal of his relationship with Ivana, whom he praised as a kind and wonderful person. Despite the controversy surrounding the film, it has garnered attention for its depiction of Trump’s life and career before entering politics.
As the controversy surrounding “The Apprentice” continues, Trump has vowed to fight back against what he perceives as a false and defamatory portrayal of his life. The film has reignited debates about Trump’s past relationships and business dealings, particularly with Ivana Trump. Trump’s continued criticism of the movie reflects his ongoing efforts to defend his legacy and reputation. The controversy surrounding “The Apprentice” highlights the complex relationship between media portrayals of public figures and the impact they can have on their public image.
