Michelle Obama Addresses Divorce Speculation Amid Personal Independence

NEW YORK, NY — Former First Lady Michelle Obama opened up about her newfound independence and the speculation surrounding her marriage to former President Barack Obama during an episode of Sophia Bush‘s podcast, “Work In Progress,” released on April 8.

In the conversation, Obama, 61, explained how her life has evolved since leaving the White House and becoming an empty nester. Reflecting on her prior roles, she shared, “I want to know what your life and your social life looks like right now,” to which Bush, 42, encouraged her to embrace her autonomy.

“It is whatever I want, Sophia, it’s whatever I want,” Michelle responded. “It’s the first time in my life all of my choices are for me.” This statement marked a significant shift from her previous life, where she often prioritized her daughters and her husband’s needs.

Michelle addressed her past decision-making constraints, noting that she often relied on excuses such as, “I have to make sure the girls are okay, or my husband’s president, so I can’t do that.” She expressed a sense of accountability, stating, “Now, you know, I can’t blame my decisions and indecisions on anyone other than me.” Adding, “I think if I’m honest with myself, I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago. But I didn’t give myself that freedom.”

She elaborated on how her newfound freedom has ignited rumors regarding the state of her marriage, stating, “That’s the thing that we as women struggle with — disappointing people. I mean, so much so that this year people couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself. That they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing.”

Michelle criticized societal expectations, saying, “This couldn’t be a grown woman just making a set of decisions herself, right? But that’s what society does to us.” She emphasized how deviations from stereotypical roles can be misinterpreted negatively.

Earlier in the week, Barack Obama also addressed their marriage during a discussion with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper, admitting, “So I have been trying to dig myself out of that hole by doing occasionally fun things.” Michelle revealed the couple enjoys watching television together, although they often clash over their preferences. “Barack and I sometimes argue over what can we watch jointly because he likes death and darkness. I said, ‘You know, you like the plots where everybody’s sad and then they die.'”

The Obama couple, who have been married since 1992, expressed openness about their relationship dynamics. Speculation regarding their marriage intensified after comments Michelle made in previous interviews and during her podcast, where she touched on issues surrounding finance and intimacy.

Reports of marital strain also circulated following rumors of Barack’s possible involvement with actress Jennifer Aniston, sparking further discussion about their relationship’s stability. However, sources close to the couple have stated their commitment and willingness to work through difficulties, indicating that they both deeply care for each other.

As the Obamas navigate their personal and public lives, Michelle’s revelation of her independence marks a pivotal moment in their post-White House journey. She urged listeners on the podcast to recognize the challenges women face in making personal choices and the often misguided assumptions that come with them.

For more insights, listen to Michelle Obama’s full conversation on the “Work In Progress” podcast.