- Michelle Obama addressed divorce rumors during a podcast Tuesday, explaining her decision to prioritize self-reflection and well-being at 61. She noted that women often face judgment when setting boundaries, which fueled speculation about her marriage.
- Barack Obama recently admitted their relationship faced challenges during his presidency, but he’s working to reconnect through shared activities and quality time.
- Michelle described this phase of her life as one of “big girl decisions,” focusing on peace and purpose over obligation.
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After weeks of speculation, former First Lady Michelle Obama addressed the growing wave of divorce rumors. She shared her side during a candid conversation on Sophia Bush’s podcast, “Work in Progress.”
During the episode that aired Tuesday, April 8, Obama said that at 61, she’s entering a new chapter of life. This phase, she explained, is centered on prioritizing her well-being and embracing self-reflection.
“The interesting thing is that, when I say ‘no,’ for the most part, people are like, ‘I get it, and I’m OK,’” she said on the podcast.
Obama noted that many people — especially women — often face backlash or judgment when setting boundaries.
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“That’s the thing that we, as women, I think we struggle with — disappointing people,” she said. “So much so that this year people were –– they couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself. They had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing. This couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions for herself.”
Absence sparked Michelle Obama divorce rumors
Many interpreted Obama’s comments as a reference to her absence from two high-profile events. She did not attend the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter in December, nor did she appear at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration — both times her husband Barack Obama appeared solo.
CNN previously reported that her absence from the funeral was due to a scheduling conflict.
As for Trump’s inauguration, a source told People magazine:
“There’s no overstating her feelings about [Trump]… Michelle doesn’t do anything because it’s expected or it’s protocol or it’s tradition.”
Barack Obama speaks on marriage
Just days before Michelle Obama’s podcast appearance, Barack Obama acknowledged their relationship had its challenges. While speaking to students at Hamilton College, he admitted to being in a “deep deficit” with Michelle after years spent prioritizing his presidency. Now, he said, he’s working to reconnect through shared activities and quality time.
A new season of growth
Michelle Obama also shared that she’s finally feeling in control of her calendar — something that hasn’t always been possible as a public figure and mother.
“It was a real big example of me, myself, looking at something that I was supposed to do… and I chose to do what was best for me,” she said.
She went on to call this a season of “big girl decisions” — choosing peace and purpose over obligation.
