Former President Barack Obama made a surprise appearance on the July 14 episode of “IMO with Michelle Obama,” joining his wife, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and her brother Craig Robinson to publicly and humorously address ongoing rumors about their marriage.
Speculation about a possible rift between the couple had circulated in recent months, largely fueled by Michelle’s absence from a few of Barack’s public appearances, including the January inauguration of President Donald Trump. But the Obamas made it clear—through laughter, warmth, and honesty—that their bond remains unshaken.
Michelle kicked off the episode by teasing a “very special” guest, later revealing Barack as he walked in to greet her with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. The affectionate moment prompted Craig Robinson to joke, “Wait, you guys like each other?”
Michelle quipped in response, “That’s the rumor mill,” setting the tone for a candid and lighthearted conversation.
Barack, always quick with wit, added with a smile, “She took me back. It was touch and go for a while,” prompting laughter all around.
The trio didn’t shy away from addressing the divorce rumors head-on. Craig recalled being stopped in Wichita, Kansas, by a woman concerned about the former First Couple’s relationship.
“She asked, ‘What did he do?’” Craig said, to which Michelle chimed in, “Why didn’t you just say, ‘No one messed up’?”
“I wanted to keep the conversation going so I could tell you about it,” Craig joked.
The Obamas used the moment to set the record straight, not with defensiveness but with clarity and affection. Barack admitted he’s usually unaware of such headlines: “Someone will mention it to me, and I’m like, ‘What are you talking about?’”
Michelle, however, was crystal clear:
“There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I have thought about quitting on my man. And we’ve had some really hard times. We’ve had a lot of fun times, a lot of adventures. I’ve become a better person because of the man I’m married to.”
“OK, don’t make me cry now,” Barack responded, playfully holding back tears. “Not at the beginning of the show.”
The Obamas, married since 1992 and parents to daughters Malia, 27, and Sasha, 24, have long been admired for their authenticity and strong partnership. Michelle noted during a past appearance on “Work in Progress with Sophia Bush” that the rumors likely began when she began carving out her own schedule, which sometimes meant missing select public events.
But their latest podcast episode served as a heartfelt and humorous rebuttal, reinforcing the message that their relationship is still rooted in love, respect, and unwavering support.
