Nationwide — Michelle Obama is shutting down rumors of marital trouble with former President Barack Obama, explaining that recent absences from high-profile events were about prioritizing her own well-being, not a sign of relationship woes. In a candid interview on actress Sophia Bush’s podcast released Tuesday, the former first lady said she’s embracing the freedom to make choices that put herself first—something she didn’t always feel empowered to do.
The former first lady’s noticeable absence at both events raised eyebrows and ignited rumors that she and Barack Obama were facing marital challenges. But Michelle dismissed those assumptions, chalking them up to society’s discomfort with women—especially prominent ones—making independent decisions. “We, as women, I think struggle with disappointing people,” she said. “People couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself—they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing.”
As a public figure and former first lady, Michelle Obama has often been expected to maintain a certain public decorum, even alongside political rivals. However, she has never hidden her disdain for Trump, making it clear that her decision not to attend events involving him had more to do with her personal convictions than any marital discord.
Her comments reinforce the idea that her recent low profile stems from a desire to set boundaries, not from any issues in her marriage. Michelle’s decision to step back is being interpreted by many as a powerful example of self-care and autonomy, rather than a signal of trouble at home.
In the end, Michelle Obama made it clear: just because she’s not showing up to every event doesn’t mean something’s wrong—it simply means she’s finally putting herself first.