Barack Obama reveals his surprising reaction to his daughter Malia’s new name
Former First Lady Michelle Obama recently shared her thoughts on her daughter Malia’s decision to drop the Obama surname professionally, using “Malia Ann” for her film credits. During a podcast appearance, Michelle admitted her initial reaction was to point out that people would still recognize her, but she respected Malia’s choice to carve her own path. Michelle explained that both Malia, 26, and Sasha, 23, are determined to establish their identities independently, sensitive to assumptions about privilege.
Barack Obama’s response mirrored Michelle’s, as he revealed on a podcast last October that he humorously reminded Malia people would know who she was. Malia, however, insisted she wanted her work judged without the Obama association. Proudly boasting about her filmmaking debut at Sundance, Barack emphasized how both daughters avoid leveraging their family name, preferring to earn recognition on their own merits. The Obamas support their daughters’ independence, even as they navigate the challenges of fame and identity.
