Reported as an exclusive, RadarOnline has delivered what they call a “Divorce Bombshell,” stating that Michelle Obama is “ready to end” her 33-year marriage. Their report cites comments by presidential historian Leon Wagener. A new spark in an on-going rumor started earlier in 2025.
According to the report, Wagener says that the Obamas “have been living separate lives for a while now,” suggesting joint appearances are “just an act.”
Over 2025, Barack Obama has been seen out solo, imagery that has fuelled these rumors of a split. For example, in early 2025 he was filmed dining solo in Washington, DC, ahead of Donald Trump’s second inauguration. He later showed up at top restaurants in San Francisco, drawing more attention, and he also grabbed dinner in Los Angeles with daughters Malia and Sasha.
All these rumors have been swirling online despite Michelle Obama stating on July 16 “There hasn’t been one moment in our marriage where I thought about quitting my man.” That line came straight from Michelle during a joint appearance with Barack on her “IMO” podcast. ABC News and CBS News both carried the remarks, and Fox News highlighted the same quote.
The current narrative
Since RadarOnline’s report, several other news sites have latched onto Wegener’s claims, recycling the divorce narrative despite the well documented denials straight from Michelle’s mouth. In a recent report, TheGrio via AOL reported the couple’s posture as firmly united in response to the noise.
Sadly, it seems that certain actions taken by Michelle in the past are fuelling headlines. For instance, AP News reported that Michelle skipped Jimmy Carter’s state funeral on January 9 due to a scheduling conflict and also chose not to attend President Trump’s January 20 inauguration, while Barack went. Those decisions became the scaffolding for months of speculation.
As Good Morning America put it, Michelle later explained on the “Work in Progress” podcast that people misread her saying “no” to public events, assuming divorce rather than personal choice. That’s a pretty clear rebuke of the narrative.
On November 4, Michelle appeared on Today’s “Jenna & Friends.” After a clip went viral of Barack telling a rallygoer “Michelle is fine,” she smiled and said, “That’s my man.” According to reports and Today’s social posts, the exchange landed like a gentle eye-roll at the rumor mill.
What’s actually verified
What is verified is very limited:
- Barack Obama has attended venues solo, but the fact is Michelle chose not to attend certain events and outings.
- Quotes and comments directly from the Obama’s rebuke talk of divorce or splitting.
The bottom line, whether you like the now-celebrity couple’s politics or not, they set a clear marker on July 16. Until something concrete appears in a docket, Wagener’s claims remain unverified, and the latest “divorce bombshell” is not verified.