Obamas address divorce rumors with scripted banter, raising questions about their marriage authenticity.
Michelle and Barack Obama finally addressed the divorce rumors that have been swirling for months, but not in a way that put anything to rest. Instead, the former first couple leaned into awkward banter and overly scripted sentimentality on Michelle’s “IMO” podcast with her brother Craig Robinson, in what came off as a carefully orchestrated PR effort to remind the world that they’re still a “happy couple.”
From the start, the conversation felt more like damage control than casual family talk. “The rumor mill. It’s my husband, y’all,” Michelle said with a forced laugh, as Barack chimed in, “She took me back.” Michelle shot back, “Now don’t start,” trying to keep the mood light. But the elephant in the room had already made itself known.
Robinson, acting as the bemused observer, leaned into the public speculation: “It’s so nice to have you both in the same room together.” Michelle responded, “I know, ‘cause when we aren’t, folks think we’re divorced.” No denial. Just a chuckle and a wink, as if simply appearing on camera together was enough to erase months of public scrutiny.
Then came the real giveaway: Craig’s story from a trip to Wichita, Kansas. “You know, this podcast has made me quite popular,” he said, adding that people come up to him all the time, which is hilarious since the podcast is officially a flop.
