Michelle Obama Shared Why Malia Dropped The Name “Obama” to Create Her Own Identity

When Malia made her first major film, The Heart, she wrote her name as “Malia Ann” in the credits. She decided to drop her famous last name, Obama, even though people would still know who she was. This small but big choice surprised many people.

On June 4, during a heated conversation with hosts Kate and Oliver Hudson on the Sibling Revelry podcast, Michelle Obama spoke honestly about her daughter’s choice. She said:

“Malia started out in the movie her first project she dropped her last name. And we were like, ‘They’re still going to know it’s you, sweetie.’ But we respected that.”

Michelle’s words show that even though they knew people would still know Malia’s background, they allowed her to make that choice. They understood that it was important for her to forge her own path.

Why “Ann”? A Way to Stand Out And be Remembered by Family

By choosing “Ann” as her working name, Malia wanted to stand out for her work rather than her famous last name. She also wanted to be remembered by her grandmother, Ann Dunham, who was Barack Obama’s mother. Both Michelle and Barack felt that this was a way for Malia to work for her own success rather than just riding on her family’s name.

Michelle shared, “It’s so important for my kids to feel like they’ve earned everything they have in the world. They want to be their own people.” It shows how much Michelle respects her daughters’ dreams and independence.

The “Push Away” Phase: Growing Up Under Pressure

Michelle also talked about how there was a time in both of her daughters’ lives – Malia (26) and Sasha (23) – when they wanted to stay out of the spotlight. She called it the “Push Away” phase.

“They went through that phase of adolescence where they wanted to stay away. They’re still doing that. They want to find who they are.”

It wasn’t a sudden change. It was part of growing up, finding their own voice, and learning who they wanted to be in the world.

Barack Obama’s reaction: “They’ll know who you are”

Barack had his own reaction when Malia dropped her last name. Last year, on The Pivot podcast, he told her:

“You know they’ll know who you are, right?”

She said, “Yeah I want them to see it for the first time without any assumptions.”

Barack laughed and said it was hard because his daughters are so proud and want to make it their own.

“They don’t need help. They’re really sensitive about it.”

This shows that even the former president has to step back sometimes and let her kids do their own thing.

Malia’s Work: Earned, Not Given

Malia’s choice to use her middle name isn’t just about the name it’s about proving that she can succeed on her own terms. She’s worked hard to get where she is. She landed a job as a writer on Donald Glover’s Amazon show Swarm and also interned at The Weinstein Company.

Family friend and journalist Gail King saw The Hart and praised Malia’s talent, saying, “Her work is amazing, and I’m excited to see what she does next.”

This shows that people in the business believe that Malia is serious and talented, and they know she’s earned it.

Michelle: Learning to Let Go

During the same podcast, Michelle shared that she’s now seeing a therapist to help her transition into an “empty nest.” She said it’s hard because she’s always focused on family. Now that both daughters are grown, she’s learning that even someone as strong as Michelle Obama has to figure out what comes next.

A fresh start outside the spotlight

So What Does This Name Change Mean for Malia?

Identity: She wants people to see her as her own person, not just Barack and Michelle’s daughter.

Respect: Her parents support her decision because they understand that it’s about being her own person.

Integrity: She wants people to see her work and give their opinion on it, not her family’s name.

Growth: She’s learning how to stand on her own, and her family supports her.

It’s more than just a name – it’s about standing tall and saying, “I’m here, and this is my work.”

Conclusion: “Anne” Is More Than Just a Name

The name “Malia Ann” is more than just a choice it’s a sign that she wants to do justice to her work. In a world where people like to label the children of famous parents as “Napo babies,” this move sends a strong message that she’s serious about her journey.

Michelle’s words show that she’s proud of her daughter. Barack’s gentle yet loving reaction shows that he trusts Malia to make good decisions.

Ultimately, Malia Ann’s choice is a reminder that even when you come from a famous family, you still have to work hard, make your own choices, and prove yourself.

We’re all excited to see where her journey takes her. And it seems her family is too.

Final Thoughts

This decision to choose “Ann” shows Malia’s strength and heart. It’s a sign that she wants to make her own way, even in a world that will always associate her with her family name. Michelle and Barack are cheering her on, proud of the woman she’s becoming.

Malia Ann’s new name is more than just a name. It’s a chance to show the world: “This is me. Watch me grow.”

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