Michelle Addresses Divorce Rumors

Michelle Obama previously dismissed rumors about trouble in her marriage. In July, she called claims that her relationship with Barack was failing “a load of tosh.”

The couple tied the knot in 1992 and has remained strong ever since. Yet, when Michelle skipped high-profile events—like Donald Trump’s inauguration and former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral—speculation about their marriage surged.

On podcasts, including The Diary of a CEO, she firmly rejected divorce rumors. She told Steven Bartlett, “If I were having problems with my husband, everybody would know about it. I would be problem-solving in public. I’m not a martyr.”

She also explained on her IMO podcast that she skipped Trump’s inauguration for personal reasons. People criticized her decision, assuming it signaled marital trouble. “They had to assume that my marriage was falling apart,” she said.

Barack Obama Speaks Out

For years, Barack Obama remained mostly silent about his marriage. Now, he has admitted to facing challenges after leaving the White House.

Speaking with historian David Olusoga at London’s O2 Arena, Obama said, “I was digging myself out of the hole I found myself with Michelle. Now I’m at about level ground.”

He previously told Hamilton College president Steven Tepper that his presidency from 2009 to 2017 strained their relationship. “I was in a deep deficit with my wife,” he said. “I have been trying to dig myself out of that hole by doing occasionally fun things.”

Since leaving the White House, Obama noted he has more time to spend with Michelle, allowing them to reconnect.

Michelle Prioritizes Herself

Michelle also acknowledged her own struggles. On Sophia Bush’s Work in Progress podcast, she said women often face the challenge of disappointing others. “People couldn’t fathom that I was making a choice for myself,” she explained.

By stepping back from the spotlight, Michelle found space to care for herself while still expressing love for her family. For example, on Father’s Day, she praised Barack’s support:

“@BarackObama has always been there for us no matter what — even when it felt like the weight of the world was on his shoulders. We’ve always been so grateful. To Barack and all the dads and father-figures celebrating today, Happy Father’s Day!”