Michelle Obama Speaks Out on Malia’s Name Change and Independence
So, here's something that’s sparked a lot of conversation recently—Michelle Obama has opened up about her daughter Malia’s decision to drop the “Obama” surname in her professional life. It’s not a rumor anymore, it’s real, and Michelle is talking about it publicly for the first time.
During a recent episode of the “Sibling Revelry” podcast, co-hosted by Kate and Oliver Hudson, Michelle candidly shared her perspective on this very personal choice by her eldest daughter. Malia, who is now 25, is pursuing a career in film and recently showcased her directorial debut, a short film titled The Heart , at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. But what surprised many is that for the film’s credits, Malia used only her middle name—Ann—completely dropping “Obama.”
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Now, you’d expect that might raise eyebrows, but Michelle made it clear: this was a move rooted in identity and independence. She said, “It’s important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned what they’re getting in the world.” That’s the kind of mindset Malia and Sasha grew up with—being seen as individuals, not as just the daughters of a former president and first lady.
Michelle admitted that she and Barack were initially amused. They told Malia, “They’re still going to know it’s you,” but ultimately respected the decision. The Obamas understand what it’s like to grow up under a spotlight, and they know their daughters need room to define themselves outside of their family legacy.
This wasn’t just a phase. According to Michelle, this desire for autonomy started in their teenage years. Like many kids of public figures, Malia and Sasha went through that natural “push away” period—wanting to step out from their parents' shadow. Michelle gets it. She called it giving them "more rope than I probably would've given them if I were my mom."
And you know what? That rope is turning into something powerful. Malia is building her own name—literally and professionally. Her parents aren't just tolerating it, they’re proud. They raised daughters who don’t want handouts. They want to earn their place.
Michelle summed it up beautifully—this isn’t rebellion; it’s growth. She said that now, as young women, both Malia and Sasha are starting to really understand their upbringing, even the boundaries that once felt strict. It’s coming full circle in the most human way.
So, yeah—Malia Ann is dropping “Obama” in her film credits. But she’s not dropping her values, or her roots. If anything, she’s proving just how deeply those roots run.
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