A recent episode of IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson has reignited long-standing online rumors and sparked a wave of reactions across social media. The discussion touched on sensitive topics like parenting a transgender child, which many viewers interpreted in unexpected ways.
In the April 30 episode, Michelle Obama was joined by comedians Damon and Marlon Wayans. During their conversation, Michelle expressed admiration for raising a transgender child, saying it was particularly meaningful “as a Black man.” While the comment was clearly directed at her guest, it quickly circulated online, leading to widespread speculation and trolling.
The idea of raising “a child who is transgender” warms Michelle Obama’s heart “as a black man”
— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) April 30, 2025
pic.twitter.com/ZJsF8iUvls
Marlon Wayans has previously opened up about his family, revealing in a 2023 interview on The Breakfast Club that his eldest child, born female, now identifies as male. “I have a daughter who transitioned into a son,” he said. “My daughter Amai is now Kai.”
This moment added context to the podcast’s theme, which focused on the challenges and triumphs of raising children in today’s world.
Rumors surrounding Michelle Obama’s gender identity first gained widespread attention in 2014 when comedian Joan Rivers, just before her passing, made controversial remarks in a TMZ interview suggesting Michelle was transgender. These claims have never been substantiated, yet they continue to circulate online from time to time.
IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson is marketed as a space for honest conversations about life, family, and society. Despite the star power behind it, the podcast has struggled to maintain viewership. While the debut episode drew over 335,000 views on YouTube, recent episodes have seen that number drop to around 60,000.
The episode continues to spark conversation, drawing attention not just to the topic of gender identity, but also to the public’s ongoing fascination with the Obamas.
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