Malia Obama is launching her career in Hollywood using the name “Malia Ann,” having chosen to forgo her famous last name.
This change was evident in her recent film, “The Heart,” which debuted at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.
Her father, Barack Obama, commented on her decision during the “Pivot” podcast, noting that while she may wish to distance herself from her famous last name, people will still recognize her connection to the family.
Former President Barack Obama said, “Her first film went to Sundance and all these fancy film festivals, and she didn’t use ‘Obama’ as a director on the credits.”
He continued, “I mean, they’re very sensitive about this stuff. They’re very stubborn about it.”
“I was all like, ‘You do know they’ll know who you are.,'” he added.
Malia’s entry into the industry follows her internship with Harvey Weinstein.