On the occasion of Michelle Obama's 61st birthday on Jan. 17, former President Barack Obama's conspicuous silence on social media fanned the flames of rumors surrounding the state of their union before he eventually posted belated good wishes.

Though it initially appeared that Barack Obama failed to publicly comment on his wife's birthday or respond to recent divorce rumors, the former president did eventually post a gushing tribute, as the Daily Mail reports.

Their marriage recently came under scrutiny when Michelle was noticeably absent from former President Jimmy Carter's funeral on January 9.

The reason? A simple "scheduling conflict," or so it was explained. However, her decision not to attend Donald Trump's inauguration, scheduled for Jan. 20, has only added to the speculation.

Body Language Analysis Sparks Further Debates

Indeed, the couple, usually inseparable and fondly documented in their public outings, was last seen together in mid-December 2024 in Los Angeles. But fans noted that the dynamics were somewhat off.

The couple's dinner in Los Angeles sparked discussion, not just because of the rarity of the sighting, but also due to their notably different demeanors. Michelle Obama shone brightly, with a glow that contrasted with her husband's seeming discomfort.

Expert Judi James professionally assessed the Obama couple's body language that night. She noted, "Barack appeared serious, while Michelle looked happy and relaxed."

Their interactions failed to show any visible camaraderie, and she added, "There is no sign in that shot of any chatting or coupling up between them."

Rumors Over "Divorce" and Possible "Political Statement"

The anticipation of Michelle's absence from the Trump inauguration was confirmed by an official communication from the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama. Shortly after, X, the successor of Twitter, was soon overflowing with speculations of a divorce.

Even as some social media voices persisted in their opinion of a looming divorce, others came up with alternate theories. They suggested that these absences could be Michelle's political statement or an indication of her grieving her mother's loss.

A source quoted by Page Six suggested that Michelle did not want to "be fake" and attend Trump's inauguration, noting, "She's always been very deliberate about where and how she shows up."

In Their Defense: Mutual Respect as Relationship Pillar

And then came the rumors of an alleged affair between Barack Obama and actress Jennifer Aniston, claims that have been rubbished by both parties involved, but enough to embitter Michelle in 2024.

The Obamas have been together since their days at a law firm in Chicago. They met in 1989, married in 1992, and have two daughters, Malia and Sasha.

Over the years, Michelle has publicly spoken about the resentments she faced when she put her career on hold for motherhood while Barack’s career gained traction.

Their time in the White House also tested their relationship, with increased pressures and Barack's demanding workload.

Through Thick and Thin: The Obama Saga Continues

Through it all, Barack has always expressed his admiration for his wife, calling her "remarkable". In his words, "Even if she drives me crazy sometimes, I never thought that there was anybody who I would rather be with." The couple has often emphasized their communication as the key element that has seen them sail through their disagreements.

As the world wonders what's on the horizon, one thing stands clear - Michelle and Barack have navigated their marital waters with respect still intact. As Barack has rightfully expressed, "We never thought that person was a bad person… It was more, 'I love you, Barack, but this is driving me crazy,' or, 'I respect you, but…'"

Only time will tell how these rumors play out in reality.