The former First Lady discussed her daughter’s name change during her appearance on the Sibling Revelry podcast on June 3. “Malia, who began her career in film, removed her last name for her first project,” Michelle stated. “And we thought, ‘They will still recognize you, Malia.’ However, we respect her desire to carve out her own path.
Michelle was referring to Malia’s credit at the premiere of her film The Heart in February 2024. She was credited as Malia Ann, indicating her intention to avoid using the Obama name in her professional pursuits. Besides The Heart, Malia also contributed to the 2023 Prime Video series Swarm, again under the name Malia Ann.
Michelle emphasized the significance of her children establishing their own identities and not feeling as though they have been “given advantages” due to their surname. “Our daughters are 26 and 23 years old. They are young adult women, yet they certainly experienced a phase during their teenage years where they sought independence,” Michelle remarked. “They continue to navigate this. It is crucial for my children to feel that they have earned their achievements in the world. They do not want others to presume they do not work hard or that they simply receive things without effort. They are very aware of this issue.”
Michelle remarked that even during their time as the First Daughters, Sasha and Malia always aspired to leave their own imprint on the world. “Our daughters certainly did not wish to be mere princesses in the White House,” Michelle stated. “They aimed to challenge the status quo. They required some freedom. They were eager to explore new experiences. They wanted to engage with the world. And I understood that given the circumstances, they likely needed more freedom than I could have provided if I were in my mother’s position.”]
Livvy Dunne not only amazed spectators at Miami Swim Week 2025 — she showcased her entire body. During the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit event on May 31, alongside celebrities such as Alix Earle and Xandra Pohl, the former gymnast from Louisiana State University executed a flawless split at the end of the runway while adorned in a polka-dot one-piece from Gabriela Pires Beachwear.
The 22-year-old posted a video of the “split decision” moment on TikTok, which rapidly gained popularity, amassing over 14.5 million views on the platform. Although Miami Swim Week has concluded, Dunne informs Elite Daily that the summerwear event in Miami Beach, Florida, has dominated her For You Page. “Currently, I’m immersed in Miami Swim Week TikTok, and it’s been quite fascinating to observe,” she remarks.
Among the most entertaining reactions she has encountered regarding her viral split are the photo comments. With users now able to share images in TikTok’s comment section, Dunne expresses that “it’s been quite amusing to scroll through and see.” Despite having rehearsed the now-famous drop prior to her runway appearance, Dunne admits it was indeed “very spur-of-the-moment.”
Livvy Had Not Intended To Perform A Split At Miami Swim Week “We had a rehearsal runway just prior to the show, and that split wasn’t even on my mind,” she states. “I spoke with my sister and MJ Day, the head of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, and they encouraged me to do it.”
Dunne initially felt a bit anxious, but the “gymnast at heart” expresses that executing a split is very true to her identity: “I may have finished my gymnastics career, but gymnastics will always be a part of me.”
For Dunne, the split represented more than merely surprising the audience. “That felt like an opportunity for me to showcase my personality and athleticism while having fun,” she explains. “I hope viewers noticed that and genuinely feel inspired to simply be themselves.”
The Invisalign partner also disclosed a subtler way she remained authentic on the runway — she wore her retainer during her walk. “You can wear it and perform a split on the runway, and no one will realize it’s in your mouth,” she notes.
Livvy’s Recommendations for Achieving Your Split
For those considering attempting Dunne’s viral drop split at home, she offers some guidance: “Be a gymnast for 20 years.”
“Please refrain from attempting that if you are not a gymnast, cheerleader, or dancer,” she advises. If you are focusing on enhancing your flexibility at a more gradual pace, the content creator suggests stretching, practicing, and even “having a banana to avoid cramping.” With sufficient practice, you may find yourself prepared for Miami Swim Week 2026.
While Coachella and Stagecoach are now behind us, music enthusiasts still have festivals such as Gov Ball, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and Breakaway to anticipate this summer. It is the season to dress up, don some glam, and relish in the performances of various artists and activations over one extended weekend. To ensure you thrive during these events, it is essential to pack the necessary items.
Makeup artist and founder of ONE/SIZE beauty, Patrick Starrr, is an expert in festival season, having attended Coachella repeatedly since 2015. His top recommendation for first-time festival attendees? “Invest in good shoes,” Starrr advises Elite Daily, emphasizing the importance of practicing your walking before heading to the major event. Additionally, water, deodorant, and several phone chargers rank high on his list of essentials.
If you wish to look stylish for those outfit photos, the makeup artist has numerous beauty recommendations. Below, you will find a comprehensive list of items in Patrick Starrr’s festival season makeup bag, ensuring you know what to bring for your upcoming adventure.
“Please try to understand my husband” – Tommy Fleetwood’s wife explains the reason behind his defeat, gaining sympathy from fans.Tommy Fleetwood had to face a serious mental health issue before the match, which prevented him from performing at 100% of his ability.“We’re sorry, but my husband gave it everything he had. We just hope people can understand that.” 
