Actor Kumail Nanjiani has publicly addressed and dismissed a persistent internet rumour alleging an affair with former US First Lady Michelle Obama, clarifying he has never even met her. The star of Marvel’s ‘Eternals’ discussed the peculiar speculation during a recent podcast appearance, expressing amusement and surprise at how such an unsubstantiated story gained traction.
Nanjiani recounted how the rumour began circulating last year, reaching his inner circle and even his wife, Emily V. Gordon. He described his initial excitement at being linked to such a prominent figure, despite the inherent absurdity of the claim. Gordon, a writer and producer, reportedly reacted with more amusement than distress when confronted with the bizarre gossip.
The discussion then broadened to include another long-running, equally baseless internet rumour involving the Obamas – specifically, former President Barack Obama allegedly having an affair with actress Jennifer Aniston. Nanjiani humorously suggested that, in both fabricated scenarios, the Obamas were depicted as “slumming it,” though he quickly added that he intended “no shade” towards Aniston.
Jennifer Aniston herself previously debunked the rumour involving her and Barack Obama last year during a television appearance. She confirmed the story was “absolutely untrue” but admitted she was “not mad at it,” highlighting a common reaction among celebrities to particularly outlandish but harmless gossip.
Beyond the realm of internet speculation, Nanjiani also reflected on significant aspects of his professional journey, particularly his experience within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He had initially signed on for six films, anticipating a substantial career trajectory following his role as Kingo in the 2021 movie ‘Eternals,’ for which he underwent a notable physical transformation.
However, ‘Eternals,’ directed by Chloé Zhao, did not achieve the critical or commercial success anticipated by studio executives and fans, becoming one of the lowest-rated Marvel films on Rotten Tomatoes. Nanjiani openly shared that the film’s poor reception deeply affected him, leading him to seek therapy to process the unexpected professional setback and its personal impact.
