Exploring Complexity: Maria Bakalova Discusses Donald Trump and Her Role as Ivana in The Apprentice

Maria Bakalova Takes on the Role of Ivana Trump in ‘The Apprentice’ Amidst Controversy and Challenges

Maria Bakalova, the breakout star of Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, is stepping into the shoes of Ivana Trump in the highly anticipated film The Apprentice, set to hit theaters on October 18. The role marks a significant milestone in Bakalova’s career, as she navigates the complexities of portraying the first wife of Donald Trump during a tumultuous era in American history.

The week Bakalova was approached for the role, she was busy filming in New York. With a meeting scheduled on her only day off, she dedicated the night before to channeling Ivana Trump, diving into a world of 70s and 80s glamour. “A lot of makeup, a lot of hair,” she recalls, laughing about her attempts to recreate Ivana’s iconic mushroom-like hairstyle and heavy eyeliner. Despite her modern wardrobe choices, she opted for her tightest outfit to capture the essence of the era.

Bakalova met with director Ali Abbasi, where they connected over their shared backgrounds growing up in post-communist countries—Ivana in Czechoslovakia and Bakalova in Bulgaria. Their conversation delved into how their histories shaped their perspectives, setting the stage for Bakalova’s portrayal of a woman who was not just a wife but a formidable figure in her own right.

Ivana Trump was a competitive skier who broke barriers in the late 60s, while Bakalova’s childhood was marked by limited opportunities for travel outside Bulgaria. Yet, her experiences as a competitive singer allowed her to explore Europe, fostering a sense of independence that resonates with Ivana’s story.

This role is Bakalova’s highest profile since her Oscar-nominated performance in Borat. Despite her success, she faced skepticism from her agents about landing the role of Ivana, as many prominent American actors were also vying for it. “What I think is important is that [Abbasi] gave a chance to an Eastern European to compete,” she reflects, emphasizing the significance of representation in Hollywood.

The journey to bring The Apprentice to life was fraught with challenges. Six months after auditioning, Bakalova learned she had secured the role, but the film faced numerous obstacles, including resistance from Hollywood studios and the complexities of filming during a global pandemic. The film’s narrative, which includes a controversial scene involving allegations of rape, sparked significant debate, leading to cease-and-desist letters from Trump’s lawyers. Bakalova acknowledges the difficulties in releasing the film, stating with a hint of humor, “We’ve been facing a bit of difficulty to release it.”

In The Apprentice, Bakalova portrays Ivana as a strong, ambitious woman who initially holds the power in her relationship with Donald Trump, played by Sebastian Stan. The film explores the dynamics of their marriage, including Ivana’s horror at the idea of a prenup and her negotiation for a better deal. Bakalova emphasizes Ivana’s intelligence and ambition, crediting her with much of Trump’s early success.

When discussing the film’s inclusion of the alleged rape scene, Bakalova expresses her trust in the screenwriter, Gabriel Sherman. She believes it is crucial for the audience to see the complexities of their relationship, highlighting how Ivana contributed to Trump’s rise while also being dismissed in the narrative of his success.

As the film approaches its release, Bakalova reflects on the timing, noting that while it coincides with an election period, the film is not intended as a political statement. “This is not a political film, this is not a hit piece,” she asserts, emphasizing the importance of sharing diverse voices and perspectives in a democratic society.

Bakalova’s journey from Burgas, Bulgaria, to Hollywood is a testament to her determination and passion for the arts. Growing up in a middle-class family, she faced the realities of a post-communist society, which fueled her ambition to succeed. Her love for music and performance led her to acting, where she found a way to escape reality and embody different characters.

With a string of impressive roles under her belt, including a voice role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Bakalova is poised to make her mark in the industry. As she prepares for the release of The Apprentice, she acknowledges the complexities of her roles and the narratives they explore, stating, “Both movies show there is always a dark side to it.”

As audiences await the film’s release, Bakalova’s portrayal of Ivana Trump promises to offer a nuanced perspective on a woman who played a pivotal role in shaping the Trump legacy, all while navigating the challenges of being an Eastern European actress in Hollywood.