Tracee Ellis Ross Exposes Obama's Friendship Blunder

Tracee Ellis Ross Shares Thoughts on Relationships and Personal Growth

Tracee Ellis Ross, known for her role in the television series Black-ish, has opened up about her personal life, including her views on relationships and how she navigates them. During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live on August 14, Ross shared a humorous anecdote involving former President Barack Obama. She recalled a time when she broke up with someone and ran into Obama, who responded with, “I could have told you that.”

Ross jokingly replied, “Well, you failed as a friend! Like, it was your job to say that before, you know what I mean?” She emphasized the importance of addressing issues early on, suggesting that friends should intervene before things escalate.

Despite her close relationship with the Obamas, Ross admitted she’s never asked Michelle Obama to set her up on a date. “I’ve never asked Michelle to set me up, which I think perhaps is dumb and I need to get on that,” she said with a laugh. This lighthearted comment highlights her candid approach to dating and personal connections.

A Focus on Younger Men and Toxic Masculinity

In a conversation on Michelle Obama’s “IMO” podcast in April 2025, Ross discussed her preferences in romantic partners. She revealed that she often dates younger men, explaining that many men her age are steeped in toxic masculinity. “A lot of men my age are steeped in a toxic masculinity and have been raised in a culture where there is a particular way that a relationship looks,” she said.

Ross described her past experiences with relationships that felt controlling or possessive. “Anything that starts to smell of that for me—I did enough of it where I was controlled and felt like I was a possession or a prize—I just have no interest in it. And I will not do it again.”

She also expressed that she no longer feels responsible for teaching or guiding men her age. “I have long been past the age where I feel like it's my job to teach somebody or grow them up,” she added.

Solo Traveling and Personal Freedom

While Ross is open about her desire for a romantic partner, she also emphasizes the fulfillment she finds in her independent life. Her 2025 series Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross showcases her adventures and how she embraces travel as a form of self-expression. The show, which debuted on July 25, 2025, is available for free on the Roku channel.

In an interview with the New York Times published on the same day, Ross explained her approach to travel. “I don’t believe in advice. I offer experience and hope. And this is my version. My transparency is about how I can give you a jumping-off point,” she said.

She added a playful comment during one episode: “There’s got to be something between cat ladies and Joan of Arc. You know what I mean?” This reflects her unique perspective and willingness to challenge cultural norms.

Embracing Self-Choice and Joy

Ross also spoke about the importance of self-choice and joy, particularly for Black women. “I really wish I had some other pictures on the wall culturally and historically that would show me what it means to push up against the cultural norm and choose yourself—of the revolutionary act of joy, particularly for a Black woman, and of having the agency and the freedom to make choices that work for you, whether you have a partner or not.”

Her reflections highlight a deep commitment to personal freedom and authenticity. Whether through her career, her travel adventures, or her approach to relationships, Ross continues to inspire others with her confidence and clarity.