The former President and First Lady have finally addressed the long-running speculation about the state of their marriage, joking that it was “touch and go for a while.”
In the latest episode of Michelle Obama’s podcast, the couple jokingly shut down the rumors, with Michelle saying, “He made time in his busy schedule. We are honored.”
Her co-host and brother, Craig Robinson, chimed in, “Wait, you guys like each other?”
Barack Obama quickly responded, “She took me back. It was touch and go for a while.”
A united front
The Obamas had previously tried to quell speculation by posting cute photos on social media, but it didn’t stop the rumors.
Michelle Obama explained that when they aren’t seen together, people assume they’re divorced.
Craig Robinson noted it was nice to have the couple in the same room together, and Michelle agreed, saying, “I know. Because when we aren’t, folks think we’re divorced.”
A strong marriage
Michelle Obama emphasized that she’s never thought of quitting on her husband, despite the hard times they’ve faced.
She said, “And we’ve had a lot of fun times, a lot of adventures, and I have become a better person because of the man I’m married to.”
Barack Obama responded, “OK, don’t make me cry now, right at the start of the show.”
Rare public appearances
Despite their united front, the Obamas have rarely been seen side-by-side in public for months.
Their last public appearance together was on May 27 at The Lowell Hotel restaurant in New York City, and before that, they were spotted on April 14 at Osteria Mozza in Washington, DC.
They’ve only shared a few photos on social media to mark birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries.
Addressing the rumors
Michelle Obama has repeatedly addressed the speculation surrounding her marriage, blaming it on their age and her new-found independence.
She told NPR’s Wild Card podcast host Rachel Martin, “The fact that people don’t see me going out on a date with my husband sparks rumors of the end of our marriage.”
Barack Obama, on the other hand, said he was largely unaware of the speculation.
He said, “These are the kinds of things I just miss. I don’t even know this stuff is going on and then somebody will mention it to me, and I’m like, ‘What are you talking about?’”