Barron Trump is looking like a young replica of his father these days, and speculation is swirling about his next steps in life.

The rumors are buzzing after the Trump family released a startling Christmas photo that showed Barron, 17, towering over his whole family, including his father.

A former aide to Barron's mother, Melania Trump, said the picture is a sign that he will take on a more public role going forward.

Barron's next step

Melania has long sheltered her son from the spotlight. His placement in the Christmas photo suggests "we will be seeing more of him now," Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, a former close friend of Melania who has since grown estranged, said.

“I believe we will be seeing more of him now. Nothing happens by chance with Melania," she said.

Melania's absence from the picture added fuel to rumors that she is distancing herself from her husband as he seeks the presidency for a third time. But sources close to Melania say she was unable to be in the picture because she was caring for her ailing mom.

“Melania’s decision to include Barron in this family activity, even if she couldn’t be there herself, might be a significant turning point, potentially fostering a new level of support between Melania and Donald," Wolkoff said.

“Barron’s appearance is truly monumental and shows Donald and Melania are in lockstep with one another,” she said.

Melania standing by her man

Melania is known to be an incredibly loving and devoted mom to her son, who has endured threats and vitriol over the years on account of his father.

Now that her son is grown up, the former First Lady is said to be more invested than ever in her husband's political future.

“Melania realizes it’s her time to join the ranks of historic first ladies and leave her mark on history … She feels better prepared for her potential role the second time around,” a source said.

President Trump made some rare comments about Barron during a September interview with Megyn Kelly. Trump made it very clear he's proud of the young man Barron has become.

"Barron’s very tall – about six-eight. And, he’s a good kid. He’s a good-looking kid. He’s a great student, very good student.”

It will be exciting to watch the great things Barron has in store.