Netflix announces Michelle Obama documentary, she tells everyone 'I’m here for you'

Michelle Obama's 2018-2019 book tour for her memoir Becoming saw much media attention throughout its duration. Fans who got to see the former first lady in their cities raved of her appearances on social media as Michelle's candid revelations of her time in the White House and her life leading up to it resonated on a personal level with many. As for those who missed out, the mother-of-two is now bringing a special glimpse of what it was like in a new Netflix documentary covering the 34-city tour. 

Directed by Nadia Hallgren, the documentary Becoming is set to make its debut on Netflix on May 6. According to a press release from the streaming service, the documentary film will take a "rare and up-close look at her life, taking viewers behind the scenes as she embarks on a 34-city tour that highlights the power of community to bridge our divides and the spirit of connection that comes when we openly and honestly share our stories," reports TODAY. Announcing the documentary on Instagram on Monday, the Obama matriarch shared a message of hope for her followers in these uncertain times.

I’m excited to let you know that on May 6, Netflix will release 'BECOMING,' a documentary film directed by Nadia Hallgren that looks at my life and the experiences I had while touring following the release of my memoir, Michelle wrote on Instagram. Those months I spent traveling—meeting and connecting with people in cities across the globe—drove home the idea that what we share in common is deep and real and can’t be messed with. In groups large and small, young and old, unique, and united, we came together and shared stories, filling those spaces with our joys, worries, and dreams.

We processed the past and imagined a better future. In talking about the idea of ‘becoming,’ many of us dared to say our hopes out loud. I treasure the memories and that sense of connection now more than ever, as we struggle together to weather this pandemic, as we care for our loved ones, and cope with loss, confusion, and uncertainty, the 56-year-old continued. It’s hard these days to feel grounded or hopeful, but I hope that like me, you’ll find joy and a bit of respite in what Nadia has made. Because she’s a rare talent, someone whose intelligence and compassion for others comes through in every frame she shoots.

Most importantly, she understands the meaning of community, the power of community, and her work is magically able to depict it, Michelle wrote. As many of you know, I’m a hugger. My whole life, I’ve seen it as the most natural and equalizing gesture one human can make toward another—the easiest way of saying, "I'm here for you." And this is one of the toughest parts of our new reality: Things that once felt simple—going to see a friend, sitting with someone who is hurting, embracing someone new—are now not simple at all.

The mother-of-two went on to stress the importance of practicing empathy during these dark times when the pandemic has claimed an overwhelming number of lives and left countless others jobless. But I'm here for you, Michelle assured. And I know you are here for one another. Even as we can no longer safely gather we need to stay open and able to put ourselves in other people’s shoes. Empathy is our lifeline here. Let’s use it to redirect our attention toward what matters most, and find ways to better remake the world in the image of our hopes. Even in hard times, our stories help cement our values and strengthen our connections. Sharing them shows us the way forward. I love and miss you all.