Barack and Michelle Obama Address Divorce Rumors with Candid Conversation
After months of public speculation, Barack and Michelle Obama are setting the record straight—together.
A Long-Awaited Response
The former First Couple appeared on Michelle’s “In My Opinion” (IMO) podcast this week, finally speaking out about the persistent rumors surrounding their marriage.
Questions about their relationship date back to 2022. At the time, Michelle candidly told CBS that there were periods she “couldn’t stand” Barack—especially when their daughters were young.
“There were 10 years where I couldn’t stand my husband,” she admitted.
“And guess when it happened? When those kids were little.”
She added that during that chaotic time—balancing careers, parenting, and everyday stress—marriage didn’t feel like a partnership.
Barack Reflects on His Presidency
A year later, Barack acknowledged the strain his presidency put on their family. Speaking about life after the White House, he confessed:
“It sure helps to be out of the White House and to have a little more time with her [Michelle].”
He went on to say he underestimated the emotional toll Michelle endured while raising their daughters under the intense scrutiny of public life.
“We were raising our daughters in a situation that just wasn’t normal.”

Shutting Down the Gossip
Despite years of public questioning, the Obamas have stayed relatively quiet—until now.
On the latest IMO podcast episode, hosted by Michelle and her brother Craig Robinson, the couple openly addressed the rumors. When Craig jokingly asked, “What, you guys like each other?” Michelle responded with a laugh: “Oh yeah, the rumor mill.”
Barack added with humor, “She took me back! It was touch and go for a while.”
Michelle playfully added that whenever they’re seen apart, people assume they’ve split. “When we aren’t [together], folks think we’re divorced,” she said.
A Heartfelt Confession
The conversation soon took a more serious tone.
Michelle made a powerful statement about their commitment, saying:
“There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I thought about quitting my man.
We’ve had some really hard times, but we’ve had a lot of fun, too.”
She credited Barack for helping her become a better person.
Barack Finds the Rumors Amusing
Barack, seemingly unaware of the gossip, admitted he’s often the last to hear about it.
“I don’t even know this stuff’s going on,” he said.
“Then somebody mentions it to me and I’m like, ‘What are you talking about?’”
Even Craig joined in on the fun, recalling how a fan once asked him on the street, “What did he do?”—referring to the former president.
Still Going Strong
Married since 1992, the Obamas continue to stand united—laughing off rumors and affirming their enduring bond. Through challenges, public pressure, and three decades of life together, their love remains.