Who was William Bill Plante? Legendary American journalist, and White House correspondent passed away at 84

Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama returned to the White House for the unveiling of their official portraits.

This is their first joint visit to the iconic building since they left in 2017 and the return of a Washington tradition last celebrated in 2012.

The ceremony to unveil their portraits was hosted by President Joe Biden and attended by First Lady Dr Jill Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris among others.

Biden during the ceremony called Obama, 61, and Michelle, 58, very close to the hearts of the American people.

The portraits were acquired and commissioned by the White House Historical Association, a tradition the association has undertaken since 1965.

The official names of the artists have been revealed: Robert McCurdy, who painted President Obama's portrait, and Sharon Sprung, the artist behind Mrs Obama's portrait.

Obama said their portraits have a special significance, because they will hang alongside portraits of other Presidents and first ladies dating back to George and Martha.

In the portrait, Obama, dressed in a black suit with a grey tie, stands prominently at the centre of the canvas.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama wears a formal blue dress and is seated on a sofa in the Red Room.