Whoopi Goldberg has come out in strong defense of Malia Obama following criticism over her choice to use her middle name, "Malia Ann," in her film industry debut, rather than her more recognizable surname.
On a recent episode of "The View," Goldberg addressed the backlash, questioning the public's concern over the naming choice of the former first daughter. "She knows she's an Obama, why do you care? Why do you care what she calls herself? If she wanted to call herself Jeanette McDonald, she has the right to! If I can be Whoopi Goldberg, she can be whoever the hell she wants to be!" Goldberg passionately stated, drawing a parallel to her own decision to adopt a stage name in her career.
The discussion arose after Malia Obama opted not to use her last name during her directorial debut at the Sundance Film Festival, sparking a wave of online commentary. Goldberg, whose real name is Caryn Elaine Johnson, emphasized the right to personal identity, especially in the public eye, underscoring her point by reflecting on her own experience in the entertainment industry.
Joy Behar, Goldberg's co-host, chimed in with a light-hearted comparison, "It's not like her last name is Nixon," further noting the positive association with the Obama surname. Alyssa Farah Griffin highlighted the "damned if you do, damned if you don't" predicament Malia faces, pointing out the scrutiny she would have encountered had she leaned on her family's legacy in her professional endeavors.
The conversation also touched on the broader issue of "nepo babies" in the entertainment industry, with Sunny Hostin expressing surprise at the lack of support for Malia's attempt to forge her own path without relying on her family's clout. Goldberg concluded the segment with a call to focus on more significant issues, questioning why people feel compelled to undermine others' aspirations.
Malia's decision to forgo her last name in her professional journey echoes Goldberg's own choice to use a stage name for privacy and personal reasons. In a 1984 interview with the Washington Post, Goldberg explained her decision to keep her real identity separate from her public persona, a sentiment that seems to resonate with Malia Obama's current situation. Goldberg's defense not only highlights the challenges faced by individuals growing up in the public eye but also underscores the importance of personal agency in shaping one's identity and career.
