Marriage trouble? Barack Obama celebrates weekend without Michelle | WATCH
Washington: Barack Obama’s solo appearance at a Washington dinner party amid Michelle Obama’s absence and ongoing divorce rumors has reignited speculation about their relationship, even as Barack attempts to quell concerns with a heartfelt birthday tribute to Michelle.
Washington: Former President Barack Obama dined at a private dinner party over the weekend at Osteria Mozza, a high-profile restaurant in Washington, D.C., fueling ongoing speculation about the state of his marriage to Michelle Obama. The dinner, hosted by restaurateur Stephen Starr, saw Obama arriving solo, echoing Michelle's previously announced absence from Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration.
Obama's presence caused surprise among the diners.
Guests were reportedly left stunned when the former president walked into the restaurant accompanied by his detail and proceeded to make his way up the stairs to a private dining area. Lighthearted, he kept communication with most guests mostly superficial and declined to take pictures with most guests. He did, however, photo-bomb one with Stephen Starr, which Starr published on his Instagram Story.
Witness descriptions of the night
Jessica Sidman, food editor of The Washington Post, confirmed on social media that Obama was indeed present. She shared a shot from a distance showing the president in a private dining room, writing: "Fellow diners applauded when he walked in the side entrance with Secret Service." Although Michelle Obama wasn't present, Obama didn't dine alone. Jeff Zients, Chief of Staff to President Joe Biden, showed up later to dine with him.
Divorce rumors and birthday tribute
Rumors about marital troubles between Barack and Michelle Obama have been circulating for weeks. However, Barack recently tried to put the rumors to rest by posting a heartfelt tribute to Michelle on her 61st birthday, calling her the "love of my life."
Michelle's history with Osteria Mozza
While not attending the weekend celebrations, Michelle Obama has a history with the venue. In November, just after Osteria Mozza opened, she hosted a private holiday dinner for her team, reportedly praising the restaurant's "California-style Italian" cuisine.
Michelle Obama skips Trump's inauguration
Barack Obama will join Donald Trump for his inauguration on Monday without Michelle, along with other notable figures like Joe and Jill Biden, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and George and Laura Bush. Sources said Michelle's absence is due to her authenticity. "She's never been fake or phony. She's always deliberate about where and how she shows up," said one insider.
