Barack Obama spoke openly about his daughter Malia’s decision to drop her last name in her directorial debut, a step she took so that her work could be evaluated without the influence of her famous lineage. In Tuesday’s episode of the podcast “Pivot,” the former president discussed his reaction and the advice he gave Malia when she decided not to use “Obama” in the credits of her first short film, The Heart, which made it to major festivals like Sundance.
Obama, always a proud father, remembered telling her: "You know that they will still know who you are, right?" However, Malia, who is 26 years old, explained to him that she wanted the audience to see her work "without any association" with the Obama family. For her, art and her voice as a director should be the center of attention, not the surname she carries. Obama shared that both Malia and her 23-year-old sister Sasha have always avoided using their status to advance in their careers.
Did Barack Obama get upset with his daughter?
"They go above and beyond to not take advantage of it," he explained, highlighting the pride he feels for his daughters' independence and ethics. He added that both Malia and Sasha resist accepting any help from him or Michelle in their projects, emphasizing their strong character and will to forge their own paths.
Malia's decision was not without controversy on social media. In February, some comments criticized her desire to maintain professional independence from her last name, arguing that it was "impossible" to separate her from the Obama family. Whoopi Goldberg came to her defense on The View program, stating that Malia had every right to call herself whatever she wished. "If she wanted to be called Jeanette MacDonald, she has the right. If I am Whoopi Goldberg, she can be whoever she wants!" exclaimed the host, defending Malia's freedom to establish her professional identity.
Recently, Malia appeared on the red carpet at the Deauville American Film Festival, wearing an outfit by Vivienne Westwood, in which she combined a corset and an asymmetrical plaid skirt. The young filmmaker admitted that she doesn't know much about fashion, but she was happy to wear a design from the renowned brand.
Malia's choice to use her name "Malia Ann" reflects her desire to make her own way without relying on the recognition of her last name. At 63 years old, Barack Obama is understanding and respectful of his daughters' autonomy, accepting that they want to build their own legacy, separate from the influence that the Obama last name may provide.