Barack Obama Attends Private Dinner Solo Amid Divorce Rumors

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Barack Obama was spotted attending a private dinner at Osteria Mozza in Georgetown on Saturday night without his wife, Michelle Obama, fueling ongoing speculation about their marital status. The dinner, held during inauguration weekend, included a small group of attendees, among them Jeff Zients, White House Chief of Staff for President Joe Biden.

According to a report by Page Six, Obama arrived at the upscale Italian restaurant and was greeted with applause from diners as he made his way to a private dining room. Despite the warm reception, Obama reportedly did not stop for photographs, though he later posed for a picture with restaurateur Stephen Starr, who shared the image on his Instagram Story.

The absence of Michelle Obama, who has been notably missing from several high-profile events, has sparked rumors of marital discord. Earlier this month, Michelle skipped the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, where she was expected to sit beside Donald Trump. Her office later confirmed she would also not attend Trump’s inauguration, though no official reason was provided.

Michelle’s aides have defended her decision, citing precedent. “Donald Trump and Melania Trump did not attend Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021,” one aide said. “She’s not breaking any protocol.” However, sources close to the former first lady suggest her absence is a deliberate statement. “She’s never been fake and she’s never been phony,” a source told Page Six. “She’s always been very deliberate about where and how she shows up.”

Barack Obama has attempted to quell the rumors, posting a heartfelt birthday tribute to Michelle on Friday, calling her the “love of my life.” Despite this, speculation persists, with some tabloids suggesting a possible connection between Obama and actor Jennifer Aniston, though no evidence has been provided to support these claims.

The dinner at Osteria Mozza was not entirely solitary for the former president. Jeff Zients arrived shortly after Obama, joining him for the evening. The restaurant, which opened just weeks ago, has a history with the Obamas. Michelle hosted a holiday dinner for her team there in November, reportedly “christening” the establishment as a favorite.

As the inauguration weekend continues, Barack Obama is expected to attend Trump’s swearing-in ceremony on Monday without Michelle. The event will also be attended by other former presidents and first ladies, including Joe and Jill Biden, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and George W. and Laura Bush.

Meanwhile, musician Kid Rock took a swipe at Michelle Obama for her decision to skip the inauguration. In a statement, he recalled performing at the 2009 Youth Inaugural Ball despite not voting for Obama. “I went out of respect for the president,” Kid Rock said. “I would kindly remind Michelle about that.”

The ongoing speculation about the Obamas’ relationship has captivated public attention, though neither Barack nor Michelle has directly addressed the rumors. As the former president continues to navigate the public eye, his solo appearances remain a topic of intense scrutiny.