Barack (64) and Michelle Obama (62) opened the Presidential Center named after the former U.S. President in Chicago - and a considerable portion of Hollywood was in attendance. A whole host of prominent guests from film and music gathered at the venue on the city's South Side. Among the attendees was, surprisingly, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
U.S. talk show icon Oprah Winfrey, directors Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, actor Tom Hanks, and late-night greats Stephen Colbert, David Letterman and Conan O'Brien were also present according to U.S. reports. Tennis legend Billie Jean King, actresses Gabrielle Union and Quinta Brunson, rapper LL Cool J, "Star Wars" legend Mark Hamill and musician Jon Batiste also reportedly appeared at the opening.
Musical Program with Bono and Springsteen
An equally prominent lineup was featured on stage. Jennifer Hudson sang the national anthem, and performers included U2 singer Bono, Bruce Springsteen, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, Marc Anthony, The Roots, and Stevie Wonder.
Other political dignitaries also joined Merkel: former Presidents George W. Bush, Joe Biden and Bill Clinton came with their wives. Canada's former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was also in attendance. Valerie Jarrett, former advisor to Obama, had publicly stated beforehand that current U.S. President Donald Trump was not invited. His relationship with Obama has been considered strained for years. In a speech, Michelle Obama stated according to the trade publication "Deadline": "No one has the right to judge who is American enough."
Privately Operated Center on Chicago's South Side
The Obama Presidential Center is located in Jackson Park on the South Side of Chicago. It is privately operated and is not part of the government library system of the National Archives and Records Administration. The complex includes a museum, library, dining facilities, a sports area and community spaces.
