Michelle Obama’s Mom Revealed What Living In The White House Is Really Like

Michelle Obama has a still-living mom: Marian Robinson. The matriarch is not a household name like her daughter and son-in-law, but she’s a vital part of the family. Marian also lived in the White House during Barack Obama’s presidency. Now she’s telling her story, as is Michelle herself. And it’s an absolutely fascinating one.

There were lots of photographs taken of the Obama family during their time in the White House. Barack, Michelle, and their young daughters Sasha and Malia were the subject of endless international interest. But there was often another person in the photos who many people overlooked – Marian.

Despite all the attention her family got, Marian kept herself out of the spotlight and avoided interviews very often. Michelle’s mom told CBS This Morning in 2018 that she avoided the media over fears that she might “say the wrong thing” and jeopardize her daughter’s career.

There was no doubt that Marian was in a difficult position once her son-in-law became president. Not only was there the risk of accidentally making a faux pas, there were all the problems that come with suddenly starting a completely new life. When raising her kids, Marian had enjoyed a very different life with her husband in a small apartment in Chicago’s South Side.

After her son-in-law was promoted to the highest office in the land, Marian suddenly got to live in luxurious dwellings where her every need was catered to. After all, the White House contains – among other things – a bowling alley, a gym, a music room and a team of the world’s best chefs. It would be a culture shock for anyone, right?