George Clooney and Larry David have long been admirers of former President Barack Obama, but a new report suggests the Hollywood heavyweights may be locked in a quiet rivalry for his attention. According to RadarOnline, Obama enjoys having both men in his social circle, yet the friendly competition between them has not gone unnoticed.
“Larry prides himself on his relationship with former President Obama, and so does George, but is there really room for both of these guys in Obama’s life?” an insider told the outlet. The question, they added, is particularly relevant as Obama and his team prepare for the opening of his massive presidential library on Chicago’s South Side.
The $800 million complex is expected to open in 2026 “once the weather lifts,” according to a spokesperson for the Obama Foundation. “Larry and George both want to be by his side for that historic event, and it’s not clear who has the upper hand,” the source continued.
“It’s going to be one or the other, and not both, and Obama likes it that way. Larry is Obama’s golf buddy and favorite comedian, but George is much more politically involved and prominent on the world stage.” The insider suggested Obama benefits from having the two men vie for the honor of introducing him at what could be the most significant public moment of his post-presidency.
David has been spotted golfing with Obama for years, particularly on Martha’s Vineyard, where both maintain summer homes. “Larry has been playing golf with Obama for years and clearly thinks this gives him the edge,” the source said.
George Clooney, however, has made his own high-profile gestures. In May, he welcomed Barack and Michelle Obama backstage at his Broadway production of Good Night, and Good Luck, making what the insider described as “a big fuss over them.” Clooney reportedly believes this personal outreach makes him the clear favorite.
Despite any tension, the source hinted that Obama himself may be quietly amused by the situation. “He’s probably laughing behind their backs,” they concluded. As the opening of the Obama Presidential Center draws closer, it remains to be seen whether the former president will favor one of his celebrity friends for the spotlight—or keep them both guessing until the very end.