'I chose to do what was best for me': Michelle Obama shuts down divorce rumours and reveals why she vanished from the public eye
Michelle Obama shared why she has taken a step back from public appearances, highlighting her need for balance, self-care, and time. She also addressed personal rumors, calling out assumptions made about her marriage while reaffirming her continued activism.
Michelle Obama recently spoke about why she¡¯s been less visible in political circles and public events. In a candid conversation with actress Sophia Bush on the Work In Progress podcast, she said her decision was rooted in a desire to protect her time, focus on her mental well-being, and take back control over her schedule. With her daughters now grown and life outside the White House settled, she felt it was the right time to reassess how she lives each day.
Refusing to run on autopilot
Michelle revealed that, in earlier years, she didn¡¯t always allow herself the freedom to make personal choices. She admitted that, though she supported her daughters' independence, she often used them as a reason to avoid prioritising herself. Now, she¡¯s consciously choosing activities that serve her peace and joy ¡ª even if it means skipping expected public appearances.
Rumours and reactions
Michelle also addressed speculation that her reduced presence meant trouble in her marriage. Skipping events like Donald Trump¡¯s second inauguration or Jimmy Carter¡¯s funeral sparked gossip that she and Barack Obama were splitting. She pushed back against these narratives, saying that many people, especially women, struggle with disappointing others. When she put herself first, people assumed the worst ¡ª that her marriage must be falling apart.
Michelle Obama with Barack Obama | Credit: X
According to CNN she said ¡°I could have made a lot of these decisions years ago, but I didn't give myself that freedom. Maybe even as much as I let my kids live their own lives, I use their lives as an excuse for why I couldn't do something.¡±
Still leading her own way
Despite cutting back on high-profile appearances, Michelle said she¡¯s far from inactive. She continues working on initiatives she's passionate about, including girls' education and public speaking. Her support for Kamala Harris during the 2024 campaign is one example of how she remains involved in shaping conversations that matter.
Michelle Obama is choosing herself ¡ª without apology, without explanation, and without giving in to public pressure.
Nancy Jaiswal is a journalist who started her career in reporting and has covered both hard and soft news. From serious city news developments to lighthearted lifestyle pieces, she has written on almost everything hapenning in India (except maybe alien invasions¡ªyet!). For her, writing isn¡¯t just work; it¡¯s a passion, an obsession, and sometimes the reason she forgets to reply to texts.
Read More