Reason why Michelle Obama missed Jimmy Carter's funeral after husband Barack seen laughing with Donald Trump

Despite being a sombre occasion to remember one of the United States’ political leaders, the funeral of former president Jimmy Carter has caused quite a stir in the celebrity realm.

One of the most hotly-debated moments from Thursday's (9 January) remembrance ceremony saw White House incomer Donald Trump and 44th leader Barack Obama, sitting side by side and seemingly enjoying some light-hearted conversation.

The 'political enemies' were flanked on either side by former First Lady Laura Bush, and Trump's 54-year-old wife Melania, leading many spectators to ask one important question - where on earth is Obama's wife Michelle?

Donald Trump and Barack Obama's cosy moment

Among those to have since chimed in on the now-viral footage of the pair chatting is forensic lip-reader Jeremy Freeman, who analysed the interaction and believes he's at least determined the nature of the discussion.

Speaking to the New York Post, Freeman began by noting the pair were likely discussing international agreements, explaining that at one point, it looks as though Trump leans towards Obama and tells him: "I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine that?"

While neither have been confirmed, this may be a possible reference to Obama's 2015 Iran nuclear deal that Trump famously withdrew from, or the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement the 45th president rejected during his first term.

That much is still unclear - though, Freeman says Obama then laughs, as Trump is seen telling him: "And after, I will."

Freeman believes president-elect Trump later warned Obama that they should 'find a quiet place' to discuss the 'matter of importance' later on during the day, away from the hundreds of cameras facing them.

Being that the duo were previously considered political opposers, some spectators have wondered what former Democratic First Lady Michelle Obama would make of their interaction - but sadly, she failed to appear at the service.

Michelle Obama missed the remembrance ceremony (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Where was Michelle Obama?

As well as Melania joining her husband Trump, and Laura supporting her other half, George W Bush, several other former first ladies also appeared with their spouses on Thursday.

Joe Biden was joined by his wife Dr Jill, and Bill Clinton was joined by his wife Hillary - but Michelle was forced to send her condolences to Carter's family from afar.

According to CNN correspondent Jeff Zeleny, the 60-year-old mother-of-two was 'still in Hawaii', where she'd been for work.

"I’m told by her advisers she had scheduling conflicts," the reporter told viewers of the live television service.

That said, however, the Obama family did share a tribute on social media.

Following Carter's death aged 100 in December 2024, the family's official account wrote on Instagram: "President Carter taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service.

"Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from this remarkable man."

Tyla has contact the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama for comment.