Former President Barack Obama was seen dining without his wife, Michelle, on Friday, April 25, 2025, sparking continued interest in their marriage. Obama, 63, dined with his daughters, Malia and Sasha, at Hamasaku, a Japanese restaurant in Santa Monica, California.
The former president wore his wedding ring during the dinner with his daughters at the luxurious venue. The family has visited the restaurant several times since 2022, as Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, reside in Los Angeles.
This outing occurs amid persistent rumors about the Obamas’ 32-year marriage. Speculation began earlier this year when Michelle was absent from significant events. In January, Barack attended former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral and President Donald Trump’s inauguration without Michelle.
Michelle’s advisers said she had a scheduling conflict and was in Hawaii during Carter’s funeral. Reports also suggested she avoided Trump’s inauguration, as he defeated the Obamas’ preferred candidate, Kamala Harris, in the 2024 election.
Michelle recently addressed the divorce rumors. “They couldn’t even fathom that I was making a choice for myself that they had to assume that my husband and I are divorcing,” Obama told Sophia Bush on the “Work in Progress” podcast as the women laughed. She explained her absences were due to her desire for independent choices after years of public service.
Speaking at Hamilton College on April 3, Barack Obama discussed efforts with Michelle to spend more quality time together since leaving the White House. He acknowledged the strains of his presidency on their relationship, noting he felt behind in giving Michelle the attention she deserved. He shared efforts to create enjoyable moments for reconnection now that their lives are less bound by public duties.
Despite being seen separately at times, Barack and Michelle have publicly expressed affection for one another. On Valentine’s Day, Barack shared a heartfelt message, saying that after 32 years together, Michelle still takes his breath away. Michelle responded with a message, stating Barack is someone she can always rely on, calling him her rock.
A source told The Sun that Michelle might be planning a solo overseas trip soon. Those close to her say she seeks time for herself to pursue dreams and goals delayed by public life pressures, considering destinations such as France, Italy, Greece, and Spain for inspiration and respite.
In a March episode of Kylie Kelce’s “Not Gonna Lie” podcast, Michelle shared that she and Barack had differing views on expanding their family. She felt content with their two daughters, while Barack suggested having a third child. Michelle responded casually, clarifying her lack of interest in the idea.
Michelle and Barack also discussed their daughters’ independence. Barack mentioned that Malia chose not to use the last name of Obama in credits for her recent film project. When he asked if she realized people would still identify her, she said she wanted the film to be viewed without immediately associating with her family name.
The Obama daughters were in elementary school when their father was elected president. Today, Malia is pursuing a screenwriting and directing career in Los Angeles, while Sasha graduated from the University of Southern California in 2023. Both sisters live independently in California, while their parents reside primarily in Washington, D.C.
While rumors about the Obamas’ marriage persist, Michelle emphasizes that her independent choices reflect personal growth rather than marital issues. The couple, who met in 1988 at a Chicago law firm, are navigating a new chapter in their long-standing relationship as they pursue joint and individual interests.
