Michelle Obama Shuts Down Divorce Rumors: “I’m Just Making Grown Woman Choices”

Former First Lady Michelle Obama is setting the record straight about her marriage to Barack Obama, making it clear that rumors of a split are unfounded — and rooted in societal discomfort with women making independent choices.

In part two of her candid interview with Sophia Bush on the “Work in Progress” podcast, Michelle opened up about her personal evolution in 2025 and how it’s been misinterpreted by the public.

“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,” she said.

The speculation started earlier this year after Barack appeared at multiple public events — including President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and Donald Trump’s inauguration — without Michelle by his side.

But Michelle made it clear: her absence wasn't about marital issues, but about making space for herself.

“We, as women, struggle with disappointing people,” she explained. “If it doesn’t fit into the stereotype of what people think we should do, then it gets labeled as something negative and horrible.”

The conversation became a powerful moment of empowerment, with Michelle calling this season of her life a turning point.

“I feel like it’s time for me to make some big girl decisions about my life and own it fully,” she said. “Because if not now, when?”

Despite the rumors, the Obamas continue to show public affection. On Valentine’s Day, they posted matching messages of love and admiration, with Michelle calling Barack her “rock — always have been, always will be.”

The Obamas have been married since October 3, 1992, and are proud parents of Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23. Their love story began in Chicago, where Michelle was Barack’s mentor at a law firm — and, as they say, the rest is history.