The #FreeMelania meme first gained massive traction during the 2017 presidential inauguration after a viral clip showed Melania Trump's smile instantly dropping into a pained expression as soon as Donald Trump turned his back. The hashtag became a rallying cry for internet users who jokingly—and sometimes seriously—speculated that the First Lady was unhappy in her position. The meme typically uses photos where she appears disinterested, stoic, or is seen swatting away the President's hand. It has since become a universal template for expressing a desire to escape awkward social obligations or highlighting uncomfortable power dynamics in public life.