Michelle Obama dismisses divorce rumours

By Newsflash Reporter

Former First Lady Michelle Obama has spoken candidly about taking a step back from public life and reclaiming control over her personal time, addressing recent speculation surrounding her absence from political events and persistent rumors about her marriage to former President Barack Obama.

In an episode of the Work in Progress podcast with actress Sophia Bush released on Tuesday, Michelle reflected on her post-White House life, now eight years removed from the national spotlight and with her two daughters grown. She shared how, for the first time in a long while, she feels free to make choices centered on her own needs and wellbeing.

“I now have the power to decide how I spend my time,” she said. “There were so many decisions I could have made for myself earlier, but I didn’t allow myself that freedom. I even used my kids’ lives as a reason not to do things for me.”

Michelle described how this shift became real when she consciously opted out of an obligation she previously would have accepted out of duty or public expectation. “This year, I looked at my calendar and, without naming names, I made a decision that was best for me. Not what I had to do. Not what others expected of me.”

Her noticeable absence from key events — including former President Donald Trump’s second inauguration and the state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter — sparked speculation and even rumors of marital discord. Addressing those whispers, Michelle acknowledged how her decision to say no was misinterpreted.

“The moment I prioritized myself, people couldn’t understand it,” she said. “They assumed something was wrong — that Barack and I must be splitting up.”

‘I make room for myself’

Despite stepping away from the political spotlight, Michelle emphasized that she remains active in causes close to her heart, such as girls’ education and the development of the Obama Presidential Center. “I still give speeches, I’m still involved in important work,” she said. “But now, I also make room for myself.”

Her remarks struck a chord with many, especially women who often grapple with the guilt of prioritizing their own needs. “As women, we’re taught not to disappoint people,” she explained. “That guilt is heavy, but I’m learning to let go of it.”

The Obamas have been married for over three decades, with former President Obama recently marking their 32-year anniversary in a post on X. Michelle has long been open about the toll public life has taken on their relationship. In her memoir Becoming, she wrote about feeling isolated and emotionally drained during Barack’s presidency.

In past interviews, Michelle has described the ups and downs of their marriage with raw honesty. Speaking to Revolt TV, she explained that relationships require constant effort and aren’t always evenly balanced. “There are times I’m giving 70 percent while he’s giving 30, and vice versa,” she said. She also admitted there were ten years when she “couldn’t stand” her husband, but emphasized the value of commitment and growth: “I’d take 10 hard years over 30 mediocre ones.”

Marriage under strain

Recent reports, including from Page Six, suggested the couple’s relationship was under strain, fueled by Barack’s solo appearances at several high-profile Washington events. However, insiders clarified that Michelle simply had no interest in traveling to the capital, and that the couple does not try to portray a perfect relationship. “They’re not trying to be the ‘Camelot couple,’” a source said. “They don’t pretend it’s always been easy.”

In December 2022, Michelle shared her perspective on what makes a marriage endure. “You have to know and like the person you’re with,” she said. “Even when you’re angry, you need to be able to say, ‘I don’t agree with you right now, but I respect who you are.’ Feelings change, and that’s when the real work begins.”

Michelle Obama’s recent reflections highlight not only the evolution of her public life, but also her commitment to authenticity and self-care. Her message resonates as a reminder — particularly for women — that choosing yourself isn’t selfish, but necessary.