Maria Bakalova revealed that she did not want to portray Ivana Trump as a „trophy wife“ in ‚The Apprentice‘. The 28-year-old actress embodies the late businesswoman and model, who was married to Donald Trump from 1977 to 1990, in the upcoming drama and explained that she wanted to show Ivana as a „competitive“ and „hardworking woman.“ Maria shared in an interview with ‚Collider‘: „I was really fascinated by her achievements and by the fact that she expressed her opinion so openly. It is still a challenge to demand your position and equality, even though we live in 2024. This has been happening since the 70s, [she] stands up for herself and demands to be treated equally, to be equal to him, not just a trophy wife sitting at home but working hand in hand with him. That was a truly remarkable achievement.“ The new film, directed by Ali Abbasi, follows Donald Trump’s (Sebastian Stan) rise to fame in the late 1970s, as he evolved from a New York real estate mogul under the influence of right-wing lawyer and political power broker Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong) to a man associated with wealth and power.
To add more context to the article, it is important to note that Maria Bakalova is known for her breakthrough role in the film „Borat Subsequent Moviefilm“, which earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of Ivana Trump in ‚The Apprentice‘ showcases her versatility as an actress and her ability to embody complex and multifaceted characters on screen.
Furthermore, the choice to focus on Ivana Trump’s character in the film sheds light on the importance of representing strong and independent women in media, especially in male-dominated industries such as real estate and politics. By highlighting Ivana’s achievements and her determination to be seen as an equal to her husband, the film challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes, encouraging audiences to reevaluate their perceptions of successful women in society.
Overall, Maria Bakalova’s portrayal of Ivana Trump in ‚The Apprentice‘ promises to be a compelling and thought-provoking depiction of a woman who defied expectations and carved out her own path in a world dominated by powerful men. The film’s exploration of Donald Trump’s early years and the influence of key figures in his life adds depth and complexity to the narrative, offering audiences a glimpse into the making of a controversial and polarizing figure in American history.