Michelle Obama has spoken candidly about her eldest daughter Malia’s decision to drop her last name as she enters the film industry. Appearing on the “Sibling Revelry” podcast on June 4 with her brother and co-host Craig Robinson, Michelle explained why she supports Malia’s choice to go by her middle name professionally.
Malia Ann, 25, made her directorial debut at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival with the short film The Heart, choosing to be credited as “Malia Ann.” The decision raised eyebrows as she notably omitted the famous ‘Obama’ surname.
Michelle told hosts Kate and Oliver Hudson, “It is very important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world, and they don’t want people to assume that they don’t work hard, that they’re just naturally, just handed things. They’re very sensitive to that – they want to be their people.”
“They’re Still Going to Know It’s You, Malia: Michelle Obama”
Michelle admitted that the family found the decision both amusing and admirable. “On Malia’s first project, she took off her last name, and we were like, they’re still going to know it’s you, Malia,” she said. “But we respected the fact that she’s trying to make her way.”
Hollywood recognizes Malia, who is pursuing a filmmaking career, for her talent and independence. Michelle emphasized that she and Barack Obama have always tried to support their daughters in carving out their paths.
No White House Princesses Here
Michelle also reflected on Malia and Sasha’s years growing up under the national spotlight. She said her daughters didn’t want to live like little princesses in the White House. “They wanted to push the envelope; they needed some rope. They wanted to try some things, they wanted to be out in the world.”
Malia and Sasha, now aged 25 and 23, are actively building their personal and professional lives beyond their parents’ legacy. Moreover, Michelle’s comments underscore the Obamas’ desire to allow their daughters to shape their futures, away from the constant spotlight of the family name.
