Fans are questioning the status of Barack and Michelle Obama's marriage after her absence from major public events.

Michelle Obama has missed key events like Donald Trump’s inauguration and Jimmy Carter’s funeral, leading to rumors about a potential divorce between the couple, though some dismiss the speculation as a personal or political matter, Daily Mail reported.

In January 2021, Michelle Obama confirmed she would not attend the inauguration of President Donald Trump, while her husband, former President Barack Obama, was set to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. The absence of the former First Lady raised eyebrows and sparked discussions online, with many speculating that it was indicative of marital troubles.

The speculation intensified when Michelle also missed the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter on January 9, citing a “scheduling conflict.”

The combination of these absences led some social media users to suggest that the couple’s marriage might be in jeopardy. “Her and Obama are on the outs!! They are getting a divorce!!! She doesn’t want to be around him!!!” one user wrote, while another added, “Sounds like an Obama divorce is on the horizon, we've all seen it, they stop attending functions together.” Even more fans voiced their concern, with one speculating, “I feel like the Obamas are about to get a divorce…”

However, others pushed back against these rumors, offering alternative explanations. Some suggested that Michelle Obama's absence from the events could be a political statement, given her position as a former First Lady, while others speculated that it might be related to her grieving process.

One social media user wrote, “Michelle Obama is in mourning/grieving the loss of her mom… On top of her not being a political figure… and you all believe a TikTok about her and Barack getting a divorce?”

The Obamas' Relationship History

Barack and Michelle Obama’s relationship dates back to 1989 when they first met while working at a law firm in Chicago. The couple married in 1992, and over the years, they have built a family together, with two daughters: Malia, born in 1998, and Sasha, born in 2001.

Throughout their marriage, they have been open about the challenges they faced, especially when Barack was balancing a demanding career and political aspirations.

In his 2020 memoir A Promised Land, Barack Obama reflected on the tension in their early marriage, recalling a moment when Michelle expressed her frustration with his long hours. “This isn’t what I signed up for, Barack. I feel like I’m doing it all by myself,” she told him. These struggles became part of the public narrative as the couple candidly discussed their personal lives.

Despite the difficulties, the Obamas persevered, and Michelle later supported her husband’s presidential run, recognizing the positive impact he could have on young, Black children. During their eight years in the White House, they both faced marital challenges, but their bond remained strong.

Barack referred to this period in his memoir, describing it as a “subtle but constant” undercurrent of tension during the early years of his presidency.

Reconnecting After the Presidency

After leaving the White House in 2017, the Obamas focused on rekindling their relationship. Barack described this phase of their lives as an opportunity to “replenish their friendship” and “rediscover their love.” The couple spent time enjoying simple pleasures, like long walks and ocean swims, as they adjusted to life post-presidency.

Michelle Obama has also spoken openly about their relationship struggles, including on her podcast The Light. She reflected on the moments when she felt frustrated with her marriage, even joking about the times she felt like “pushing Barack out of the window.”

Yet, she also emphasized that these tough times were part of the process of strengthening their bond. “If I had given up on it, if I had walked away from it, then I would’ve missed all the beauty that was there as well,” Michelle said on the podcast.

The Speculation and Reactions

While some fans have focused on the couple’s recent absences from public life, the Obamas have always maintained that their relationship is a work in progress. In Michelle’s 2020 memoir, Becoming, she opened up about the ups and downs of their marriage, stressing that facing hardships together made their relationship stronger.

The current speculation surrounding their marriage may reflect the public’s fascination with the Obamas as a couple. The former First Lady’s absence from significant events is notable, but it could just be a personal decision. It is also possible that, as some have suggested, her absence from the inauguration and funeral serves as a political statement. In the midst of these rumors, the couple’s true intentions remain unclear.

As for the future of their relationship, Michelle has reassured the public that their bond remains strong. “We have a very strong marriage,” she said, acknowledging the tough times but emphasizing that their commitment to one another is unwavering.

Conclusion

Rumors of a potential divorce between Barack and Michelle Obama may have sparked speculation due to her absences from key public events. However, we must remember that these remain merely speculations.

The Obamas have consistently shared their struggles and growth as a couple, and their recent decisions likely reflect personal, political, or emotional factors. Regardless of the truth, their relationship continues to stand as one of the most enduring elements of their public lives.

As the Obamas navigate their post-presidential lives, public fascination with their marriage will likely persist. Yet, as always, the couple themselves will shape their true story, not rumors or speculation.