Michelle Obama's candid remarks about her early relationship with Barack Obama have reignited rumors of marital strife between the former first couple, as speculation swirls over a possible divorce and the division of a joint fortune estimated at $70 million. The former First Lady made a pointed comment about her husband's financial standing at the time they met, during a recent episode of her podcast The Light, co-hosted with her brother Craig Robinson.
"Uh, I married one," Michelle said with a laugh when asked whether she'd be attracted to a man who wasn't financially sound. The conversation was prompted by guest Jay Shetty, a British author and life coach, who questioned the importance of financial stability in relationships.
Michelle, 60, reflected further on her decision to leave corporate law after meeting Barack in 1988, when he joined her firm as a summer associate. "I left my corporate firm when I met Barack," she said. "I had somebody who was like, 'I've got your back. The risks you think you're taking - they aren't that crazy. I'm here to help you.'"
She added, "That's when I said, 'I would rather have that in a partner than a higher income. I would rather have somebody who is ready to do some hard things with me.' But that meant I had to be ready to do some hard things with him too."
While the podcast segment came across as both humorous and heartfelt to many listeners, sources cited by RadarOnline interpreted the remarks as a possible "financial swipe," suggesting the couple may be quietly preparing for a separation. "Michelle opening up about how she supported Barack before he made it big is a glaring sign they are embroiled in cash discussions behind the scenes," one unnamed insider told the outlet.
Another source added, "They want to have everything ironed out in advance. The last thing they want is an ugly fight with lots of nasty legal filings." The couple is reportedly working behind the scenes to divide multiple homes in Washington D.C., Martha's Vineyard, and Chicago, in addition to a stock portfolio worth more than $25 million.
Despite mounting public speculation, the Obamas have made no official comment. Their recent public statements and social media activity have emphasized unity. On Valentine's Day, both Barack and Michelle posted affectionate tributes to one another on Instagram, using the same photo and writing messages that described each other as "my rock."
Just months earlier, the couple celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary, with Barack, 62, writing, "I couldn't have asked for a better partner and friend to go through life with." Michelle responded, "Thirty-two action-packed years with my honey... thank you for always having my back."
Still, observers have noted that the pair have appeared together less frequently in recent months. Fueling further gossip, unfounded rumors circulated linking Barack to actress Jennifer Aniston-claims dismissed as baseless by those close to the family.
During another podcast episode, Michelle acknowledged that their time in the White House placed significant strain on their marriage. "Being married to the president of the United States (is a) thing that none of us kind of banked on," she said. "We knew Barack was smart and ambitious, but, you know..."
She credited her brother Craig for ultimately encouraging her to support Barack's presidential run. "You talked me into supporting his run," she said on air. "He was smart enough to know that he needed to come to you and sell you on the idea. Because I was definitely like, no, no way."
The Obamas have continued to operate jointly in business since leaving the White House in 2016. Through their production company, Higher Ground, and multiple publishing and speaking deals, they've built a considerable post-presidency enterprise. Michelle's bestselling memoirs and tours have earned millions, while both remain prominent public figures in political and cultural spheres.
The couple also continues to prioritize family. Daughters Malia, 25, and Sasha, 22, have settled in Los Angeles, pursuing careers in entertainment and social sciences. The Obamas' frequent presence on the West Coast is largely tied to being close to their children.
