Barack Obama celebrates 'love of my life' Michelle's birthday with sweet tribute amid divorce rumors
WASHINGTON, DC: Former president Barack Obama took to Instagram on January 17 to celebrate his wife Michelle Obama’s 61st birthday with a touching tribute, quashing recent rumors of divorce.
“Happy birthday to the love of my life, @MichelleObama,” Obama wrote alongside a photo of the couple holding hands during an intimate dinner.
Barack Obama's birthday tribute to wife Michelle Obama
View this post on Instagram
In the heartfelt post, Barack Obama described Michelle Obama as someone who “fills every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace” and added, “I’m so lucky to be able to take on life’s adventures with you. Love you.”
Michelle, who wore a stylish V-neck sweater dress and a patterned headpiece in the shared image, later reposted the message on her social media, simply writing, “Love you, honey!”
Speculations of Barack Obama and Michelle Obama's marital strain addressed
Recent rumors of marital issues between the power couple emerged after Michelle Obama missed several high-profile events, including former president Jimmy Carter’s funeral on January 9.
Additionally, her decision not to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony with Barack added fuel to the fire. Despite the gossip, Barack’s heartfelt tribute showcased the strength of their relationship.
A statement from the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama clarified that Michelle’s absences were due to scheduling conflicts rather than personal issues, according to Daily Mail.
Inside Barack Obama and Michelle Obama's relationship
Barack and Michelle Obama’s relationship has been a cornerstone of their public image.
The couple met in 1989 at a Chicago law firm, where Michelle was Barack’s mentor. They married in 1992 and went on to have two daughters, Malia, 25, and Sasha, 22.
Throughout their journey, the Obamas have been candid about the challenges they’ve faced, including the strain on their marriage during Barack’s presidency.
Michelle Obama on 'resentment' she felt in her marriage
Michelle Obama has previously spoken about the “resentment” she felt when her career took a backseat to family responsibilities, while Barack Obama focused on his political ambitions.
However, the couple has always emphasized mutual respect as the foundation of their relationship.
Barack once shared, “Even when things were tough, we never lost basic respect for the other person. We never doubted each other’s intentions.”
In addition to marital rumors, the Obamas have also had to address unfounded claims about their personal lives.
In October 2024, actress Jennifer Aniston dismissed allegations of a relationship with Barack as “absolutely untrue,” reiterating her limited acquaintance with the former president, according to Daily Mail.