The online chatter surrounding the former U.S. president’s recent public appearance comes just months after experiencing the loss of a loved one.
Barack Obama attended the Los Angeles Clippers vs. Detroit Pistons game on March 5, 2025, without his wife, Michelle Obama, who has remained out of the public eye.
A fan comment on Barack Obama’s public outing, dated, March 6, 2025 | Source: X/@ThomasSowell
The 63-year-old politician was spotted courtside at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, seated between Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife, Connie Snyder.
Connie Snyder, Barack Obama, and Steve Ballmer pictured during a basketball game on March 5, 2025, in Inglewood, California. | Source: Getty Images
At one point during the game, Barack was presented with a personalized Clippers jersey, drawing attention from spectators. As he chatted with Ballmer, cameras captured the moment, fueling online conversations about his solo outing without his wife of 32 years.
Connie Snyder, Barack Obama, and Steve Ballmer at a basketball game on March 5, 2025, in Inglewood, California. | Source: Getty Images
One person assumed on Facebook, “They’re definitely having problems. She wasn’t with him at the inauguration nor at the funeral…something is up.” “Maybe she doesn’t like sports..geez [sic],” one added.
Meanwhile, other people came to his wife’s defense, writing on X, “Michelle Obama’s mother died less than a year ago. The former first lady might still be grieving that loss.”
Barack Obama waves at spectators during a basketball game on March 5, 2025, in Inglewood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Sharing personal experiences, one person reflected, “[…] It took me some time to enjoy the simplest things afterward.” Another echoed the sentiment, adding, “Let her grieve!!”
One individual expressed empathy for Michelle, “As a woman who lost her mother recently, it is a hard process. Maybe Michelle just needs time to get herself together.” Observing the situation, another person remarked, “So he’s alone she loss [sic] her mom probably not at her best.”
Discussions about the attorney’s absence became more nuanced as people reflected on the personal loss she endured last year.
In June 2024, she shared the news of her mother’s passing on X, “My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed. She was the same steady backstop for our entire family, and we are heartbroken to share she passed away today. We wanted to offer some reflections on her remarkable life.”
Michelle’s decision to stay out of the spotlight became more apparent in the weeks leading up to President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. Reports indicated that she would not be present for the ceremony, while Barack was set to attend alongside the country’s other former presidents.
Her office confirmed on January 14 that she had no plans to participate in the January 20 events, though no specific reason was given. In a brief statement, her team announced, “Former President Barack Obama is confirmed to attend the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies. Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend the upcoming inauguration.”
Michelle’s absence from the inauguration was not the only public event she missed. Just days earlier, she was not present at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, where all living former presidents and first ladies gathered to pay their respects.
Her absence raised speculation, as she had previously attended similar ceremonies. Addressing the matter, her spokesperson, Crystal Carson, issued a statement to People.
Barack Obama, Jimmy Carter, Michelle Obama, and Bill Clinton pictured on August 28, 2013, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
“Former First Lady Michelle Obama is not in attendance at President Jimmy’s National Funeral Service. Mrs. Obama sends her thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from the remarkable former President,” the statement read.
Though the statement focused on honoring Jimmy’s legacy, additional reports shed light on Michelle’s location. The Chicago native reportedly had a scheduling conflict and was still in Hawaii on an extended holiday at the time of the service.
Michelle Obama photographed on August 28, 2023, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Michelle’s absence from the former 39th US President’s funeral stood out, given the close ties she and Barack have shared with his family. While he attended, she was unable to adjust her schedule.
Jimmy Carter passed away on December 29, 2024, at 100, making him the longest-lived U.S. president. The Carter Center confirmed his peaceful passing at home in Plains, Georgia, highlighting his decades of service and humanitarian efforts, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Jimmy Carter pictured at the Carter Center on September 14, 2011, in Atlanta, Georgia. | Source: Getty Images
Survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, his family honored his legacy. “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” his son, Chip Carter, shared.
Condolences poured in nationwide, recognizing Jimmy’s lasting impact. On December 30, 2024, Barack and Michelle paid tribute in a heartfelt Medium post, reflecting on his influence. The couple’s tribute highlighted Jimmy’s lifelong commitment to faith and service, emphasizing his deep connection to his hometown church.
They described how, for years, visitors from around the world filled the pews of Maranatha Baptist Church on Sundays, where Jimmy stood before them, playfully asking if there were any newcomers before beginning his lesson — something he had done for most of his life.
Barack emphasized that Jimmy’s true legacy was his unwavering character. “Elected in the shadow of Watergate, Jimmy Carter promised voters that he would always tell the truth. And he did — advocating for the public good, consequences be damned,” he wrote.
Michelle and Barack Obama (2nd-L), Jimmy Carter (R), and Bill Clinton on August 28, 2013, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
He reflected on their interactions, noting that the late politician did not merely speak about his values but lived by them, demonstrating grace, dignity, fairness, and a dedication to serving others.
The tribute concluded with condolences to the Carter family and those impacted by his life. They noted that while Maranatha Baptist Church would be quieter on Sundays, Jimmy’s memory would remain — resting beside his wife Rosalynn Carter under a willow tree, continuing to inspire others to embrace their better angels.
Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton attend the Hurricane Relief concert on October 21, 2017, in College Station, Texas.
Jimmy’s funeral served as both a tribute to his legacy and a rare gathering of influential political figures. Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack attended alongside President-elect Trump.
Former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden were also present, accompanied by former Vice President Kamala Harris and former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. Hillary Clinton joined her husband, Bill Clinton, while Laura Bush and Melania Trump attended with theirs.
Joe Biden, Jill Biden, Kamala Harris, and Doug Emhoff attend Jimmy Carter’s funeral service on January 9, 2025, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
One of the most heartfelt moments came when Jimmy’s grandson, Joshua Carter, spoke about his steadfast dedication to faith and service. “He taught the Bible every Sunday from World War II to Covid,” he said, noting that no matter his commitments, his grandfather always prioritized leading his Sunday school class at Maranatha Baptist Church.
Joshua continued his tribute by sharing stories that reflected Jimmy’s dedication to service. Before beginning his Sunday school lessons, he would often reflect on his week — whether it involved monitoring elections, mediating conflicts, or working to eradicate disease in struggling communities.
Jack Carter and Liz Grandson pictured on January 9, 2025, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
He also recounted a deeply personal memory, recalling how Jimmy once shared tragic news with his congregation, noting that his brother had passed away on a Sunday — the only time his grandfather had ever been late to teach.
His tribute emphasized Jimmy’s lifelong commitment to helping others, describing how he built homes for those in need, fought diseases in overlooked places, and pursued peace whenever possible.
Jimmy Carter and Rosalyn Carter photographed on June 10, 2003, in LaGrange, Georgia. | Source: Getty Images
He concluded by highlighting the faith that guided his grandfather’s actions, explaining that Jimmy shared these stories in Sunday school not for recognition but out of devotion to the “Prince of Peace.”
Jimmy’s funeral was a tribute to his life of service, faith, and integrity, drawing tributes from world leaders and loved ones. While Barack attended, Michelle’s absence drew attention, sparking further conversation about her time away from the public eye.
Jimmy Carter pictured on September 14, 2011, in Atlanta, Georgia. | Source: Getty Images
The ceremony highlighted Jimmy’s lasting impact, from his humanitarian efforts to his deep commitment to faith. As Barack and Michelle shared in their tribute, his legacy reaches past politics, serving as a lasting example of compassion, honesty, and dedication to others. Though he is no longer here, the principles he stood for continue to inspire.
