Malia’s Bold Choice

Malia Obama, 26, made headlines last year when she decided to drop the family surname for her professional projects. She went by Malia Ann in the credits of her short film The Heart, which premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

Michelle’s Take

Michelle Obama, 61, shared her reaction on the Sibling Revelry podcast with Kate and Oliver Hudson. She explained her initial advice: “They’re still going to know it’s you, Malia.”

The former First Lady emphasized that both Malia and her sister Sasha, 23, have gone through phases of independence since their teen years. “It is crucial for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they are getting in the world. They don’t want people to assume they don’t work hard or are just handed things,” she said.

Michelle added that the daughters are sensitive and determined to forge their own paths. “She took off her last name, and we were like, they’re still going to know it’s you, Malia. But we respected the fact that she’s trying to make her way.”

Barack’s Perspective

Barack Obama, 63, shared his view on The Pivot Podcast in October. His initial reaction mirrored Michelle’s: “You do know they’ll know who you are?”

Malia responded, “I want them to watch [my film] the first time and not have that association.” Barack noted, “Our daughters go out of their way not to try to leverage that.”

Letting Them Find Their Way

When asked how they support their daughters’ independence, Barack admitted the challenge: “The challenge for us is letting them get any help at all. They’re very sensitive about this stuff. They’re very stubborn.”

The Obamas clearly respect Malia and Sasha’s desire to define themselves, even as they navigate the balance between guidance and independence.