Celebrities often go by stage names that become synonymous with their public personas. However, behind these glamorous monikers are real names that reflect their origin, identity, and sometimes, a quirk of fate. In this article, we delve into the lesser-known birth names of famous celebrities and the stories behind their name changes.
1. Meghan Markle (Rachel Meghan Markle): The Duchess’s Given Name
Meghan Markle, now a member of the British royal family, was born Rachel Meghan Markle. The use of her middle name “Meghan” throughout her life is a fascinating glimpse into her future identity.
2. Rihanna (Robyn Rihanna Fenty): The Barbadian Superstar
Rihanna’s real name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty. Her middle name, “Rihanna,” has become an international brand. However, her close friends and family affectionately call her by her birth name, Robyn.
3. Emma Stone (Emily Stone): The Search for Identity
Emma Stone’s journey to fame saw her adopting a new name. Born Emily Stone, she initially sought to use the name “Riley Stone.” However, due to its similarity to another actress’s name, she settled on “Emma.”
4. Miley Cyrus (Destiny Hope Cyrus): From Destiny to Miley
Miley Cyrus, the pop sensation, started life as Destiny Hope Cyrus. Her nickname “Smiley” due to her constant smiling as a baby eventually led to her being called “Miley.”
5. Cardi B (Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar): The Evolution of a Name
Cardi B’s birth name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar. Her stage name, “Cardi,” is a nod to her nickname “Bacardi,” inspired by the alcoholic beverage, given to her because her sister’s name is Hennessy.
6. Jamie Foxx (Eric Marlon Bishop): A Strategic Name Change
Jamie Foxx, born Eric Marlon Bishop, adopted a gender-neutral name, “Jamie,” to increase his chances of being called first at comedy clubs. This choice reflects his comedic foresight and adaptability.
7. Calvin Harris (Adam Richard Wiles): Behind the Beat
Calvin Harris’s true identity is Adam Richard Wiles. Taylor Swift revealed his birth name at the iHeartRadio Awards in 2016. He contemplated changing his stage name due to potential negative associations.
8. Brad Pitt (William Bradley Pitt): A Casual Transformation
Brad Pitt’s birth name is William Bradley Pitt, but he chose to go by his nickname “Brad” for his acting career. This shift to his more informal name aligns with his approachable on-screen persona.
9. Nicolas Cage (Nicolas Coppola): Shedding the Family Name
Nicolas Cage dropped his last name, “Coppola,” which is associated with his uncle, the famed director Francis Ford Coppola. This change was an attempt to avoid accusations of nepotism.
10. Drake (Aubrey Drake Graham): The Power of a Middle Name
Drake’s stage name comes from his middle name, “Drake,” which his father bestowed upon him. The preference for “Drake” in his everyday life reflects a personal attachment.
The world of celebrities is often marked by aliases that become household names. However, the real names behind these personas hold stories of identity, strategy, and personal connections. From Meghan Markle to Drake, these celebrities carry their birth names as part of their unique journey to fame.
