Michelle Obama reacts to divorce rumors

Michelle Obama reacted in a fairly direct manner to the persistent rumors about her marriage to the former president, during her appearance on Sophia Bush’s podcast Work in Progress.

She explained that these speculations about her absence from certain events attended by Barack Obama stemmed from the fact that her choices did not match the stereotypes of what is generally expected of her in this type of situation.

Aside from a few occasional appearances, including her speech at the 2024 Democratic convention, the former first lady has been noticeable by her absence at several events where Barack Obama was present. 

This includes the inauguration of Donald Trump as well as the funeral of former president Jimmy Carter.

Michelle Obama gave a very clear explanation about her absences, emphasizing that it is not about «something negative and horrible».

She simply decided it was time for her to make her own choices, stating: «Because if not now, when? What am I waiting for?».

Michele Obama says being now 61 leads her to think differently and to make decisions based on what she really wants for herself. 

Michelle Obama explains that she no longer acts out of obligation or to meet expectations, but rather according to her own desires and priorities. This is a moment in life where she refocuses on herself and asks the essential question: «Who do I truly want to be every day?».

Michelle Obama also explains that if her recent decisions do not match the stereotypes of what people think she should do, they are then perceived as something negative or dramatic. That’s how, according to her, the rumors of divorce were born, simply because she made a personal choice, which some immediately interpreted as a separation from her husband.