Donald Trump, a name synonymous with business, television, and politics, has led a life filled with extraordinary and often surprising facets. While many know him as a former President and a real estate mogul, there are numerous lesser-known facts about him that paint a fuller picture of his multifaceted personality.
From his unique hair care routine to his surprising involvement in professional wrestling and board games, these intriguing facts offer a glimpse into the unexpected sides of Donald Trump. Discover the stories behind the man who has always been in the spotlight.
He Never Smokes, Drinks, or Does Drugs
Despite his high-flying lifestyle, Trump has abstained from smoking, drinking, and drugs ever since his older brother, Fred, warned him. This decision was heavily influenced by Fred, who struggled with alcoholism and ultimately succumbed to it. Fred’s struggles led Trump to avoid alcohol and drugs entirely and advocate for stricter drug regulations and heightened awareness.
The Hair Routine
Trump’s distinctive hair has been the subject of endless speculation and jokes. He maintains his remarkable hairline by washing it with Head and Shoulders and letting it air dry for about an hour. Once dry, he combs it in his usual style, a mix of forward and back, which he has done for years to ace that unique and often-discussed look.
WWE Showdown
In 2007, Trump participated in a high-profile bet with WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. They each chose a pro-wrestling representative to fight on their behalf, with the loser agreeing to shave his head. Trump’s representative won, and he famously helped shave McMahon’s head in the ring.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 2007, Trump was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking the 2,327th star to be awarded. He received this accolade for his role as the producer of NBC’s reality show, The Apprentice. It became a massive hit and cemented Trump’s status as a television personality.
Trump: The Game
In 1989, Trump launched Trump: The Game, a board game designed to capitalize on his business mogul image. The game was similar to Monopoly, but unfortunately, Trump’s game was discontinued due to poor sales and reviews.
Trump Vodka
Although Trump is not an avid drinker, he launched his vodka brand at the end of 2005, marketing it as “a superb product and beautifully packaged.” Unfortunately, Trump Vodka was discontinued in 2011 due to lackluster sales.
Military Academy Background
At age 13, Trump’s parents enrolled him in the New York Military Academy, hoping it would provide the discipline needed for their lively son.
Trump graduated in 1964 and initially attended Fordham University, later transferring to the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He got a BS in Economics from Wharton. It is one of the most prestigious business schools in the world, laying the foundation for his future business career.
Critique of Ronald Reagan
Trump is known for his blunt critiques, even regarding revered figures. In his 1987 book The Art of the Deal, he questioned President Ronald Reagan’s substance, writing, “Only now, nearly seven years later, are people beginning to question whether there’s anything beneath that smile.”
Marriages and Affairs
Trump has been married three times. He is currently married to Slovenian model Melania Knauss. His first marriage was to Ivana Zelnickova, who was an alternate for the 1968 Czech Olympic Ski Team. They divorced after Trump had an affair with actress Marla Maples, whom he later married. The affair famously led to a confrontation between Ivana and Maples on a ski slope in Aspen, Colorado.
He’s Been Sued Over 4,095 Times
Donald Trump has been involved in a staggering 4,095 legal actions over the past 30 years, an unprecedented number for any businessman or President. This extensive legal history includes cases where he or his companies were plaintiffs, defendants, or involved in other legal capacities.
The Birther Movement
Trump was a prominent figure in the “birther” movement that questioned President Obama’s birthplace. He even sent investigators to Hawaii to find evidence supporting his claims. Even after Obama released his birth certificate in 2014, Trump referred to it as a “so-called birth certificate.”
Offer to President Obama
Despite his criticisms of Obama, Trump extended an olive branch by inviting him to play golf on any of Trump’s courses. The condition required Obama to conclude his presidential term prematurely.
The Ice Bucket Challenge
In the summer of 2014, Donald Trump joined the viral ALS Ice Bucket Challenge to raise awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Trump took the opportunity to challenge President Obama to participate in the fundraiser. The challenge was a massive success, raising $115 million for the ALS Association.
Trump’s Germaphobia
Trump has a well-known aversion to germs, which makes him reluctant to shake hands. When he does, he employs a unique technique of pulling the other person close to his body. His germaphobia extends to other aspects of his life, including an aversion to touching communal objects and his preference for cleanliness.
Trump’s Football Fantasies
Trump’s football aspirations didn’t end with his high school varsity days.
In the mid-1980s, he acquired the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League and made an unsuccessful attempt to merge the league with the NFL. The USFL eventually folded.
