The Real Names of Movie Actors and Writers

Ever wonder what an actor, actress, or musician's real name is? I've compiled a list of some of the most common celebrities and their real names. I've watched thousands of movies and never knew who these people really were. Find out what the stars put on their driver's license or marriage license. It is very common for movie stars to create stage names to make it easier for people to pronounce their names or make themselves sound better. With a last name like Anastassakis do you think people would struggle with pronouncing your name? Now try Aniston, much easier to pronounce. Jennifer Anastassakis changes into Jennifer Aniston and everyone knows who she is. Even shortening your first name can make things easier. Take for example, Al (Alfredo) Pacino or Rita (Margarita) Hayworth. Making yourself attractive may not just depend on one's looks but names can also sound sexy, suave, or interesting.

Other actors or professionals may change their name to protect their privacy. If you are a well known actor it is difficult to mask your true identity but other professionals can help keep the attention off them by using a stage name. Stage names have been used for a long time and the Screen Actor's Guild requires that only one name may be used by an actor or actress. For example, Michael Keaton, his real name is Michael Douglas, so he couldn't use Michael Douglas as his stage name if the real Michael Douglas already took it.

According to the Screen Actor's Guild they try to avoid registering individuals under the same professional name. If you have other alternative name choices you must submit them (they actually ask for three) to make sure the name hasn't already been taken. Apparently the pool of names is like getting a license plate at the DMV. You have to file for what you want but may end up with your second or third choice. There is also a fee for joining the SAG just like registering your vehicle. The British Actors’ Equity Association has the same guidelines for stage names.

Often celebrity agents also pick names for their clients to make their resumes look better or more attractive to talent agencies or movie studios. Stage directors aren't going to remember your name if it's too difficult to pronounce or spell, any edge you can get in the world of entertainment can only help. Of all of the stage names, Hulk Hogan is probably my favorite, followed up by Lady Gaga. Apparently she got her name when her agent accidentally sent her a text that said Gaga instead of Radio. Some celebrities that have famous siblings or parents also choose stage names to make sure they do not receive undue attention from agents or to avoid nepotism in the entertainment business. Some notable actors that changed their names include Nicolas "Coppola" Cage (Francis Ford Coppola's nephew), Angelina Jolie "Voight" (Jon Voight's daughter), although she may have changed her name due to her estrangement from her father, while other actors have kept their notable parents' last names. Actors such as Ben Stiller, Kiefer Sutherland, & Miley Cyrus to name a few.

If I haven't included a common celebrity...please post a comment with their name and I'll include it on my list. Also, if you had to pick your own stage name what would it be? Try to be creative and see what you can come up with. If you have any trouble coming up with a name try going to Rum&Monkey. There is a name generator program that will convert your name into a Japanese, British, Mormon, Harry Potter, Korean, you name it.

My British name was: Neville Butcher
My Korean name was: Lim Tae Tae
My name as an emo song: Kill my tears because I want to believe in us
My hippy name: Lilac Juniper
Jersey Shore name: Sammy Mortadella
My Harry Potter name: Mimbletonia

If you are looking to generate a real name. Try the random name generator.