Barack Obama’s Daughter Turns Heads After ‘Changing’ Her Name

**Note: This story originally made headlines in February 2024.**

In a bold and intentional step, **Malia Ann**—formerly known as **Malia Obama**—is stepping into the Hollywood spotlight **on her own terms**, choosing to drop her iconic surname and embrace her middle name.

At **25 years old**, Malia debuted her directorial short film **”The Heart”** at the 2024 **Sundance Film Festival**, officially introducing herself as a rising creative voice—*independent of her presidential lineage*.

> “It’s an odd little story,” Malia shared, “about a man heartbroken over the death of his mother, who leaves him an unusual request in her will.”

Backed by **Donald Glover’s production company Gilga**, the project marks a new chapter for Malia, who previously worked as a **staff writer** on Glover’s Amazon Prime series, *Swarm*. Industry insiders, including *Swarm* co-creator Janine Nabers, praise her as *“an incredible writer and artist.”*

Even Glover emphasized that her success is earned:

> “We don’t lower our standards for her. She’s genuinely talented.”

Notably, **Barack and Michelle Obama** did not attend Sundance, letting their daughter shine on her own. And shine she did.

Malia Ann’s journey is one of **creative freedom**, quiet confidence, and stepping out of the shadow of fame to craft a **name of her own**.