7 Celebrities Who Have Changed Their Names

The most notable names in entertainment may or may not be names that are actually made up. Many celebrities are known for the names they go by, but did you know that surprisingly, several well-known stars have actually changed their names? Some have shortened their names, and some have totally changed their names. Some have even adopted some of their childhood nicknames. Before they got really big and made names for themselves in Hollywood, these celebs decided on names that they felt were more recognizable and catchy than the names they were given at birth. To learn the real names of some of the most popular celebs in Hollywood, check out these 7 super stars who changed their names.

Kirk Douglas

The late Kirk Douglas is an actor who changed his name to accommodate his dreams. He was born to Russian immigrants Herschel and Bryna, who changed their names to Harry and Bertha. Kirk was born Issur Danielovitch. He felt his name was too Jewish sounding for Hollywood during his era, he told People in 2015.

John Legend

John Legend is another actor who changed his name, this time based on a childhood nickname. “John Legend is a nickname that some friends started calling me, and it kind of grew into my stage name. It grew to the point where more people in my circle would know me by that name than by my real name,” he told MTV. John Legend was born John Roger Stephens. John Legend does have a nice ring to it.

Meg Ryan

When she joined the Screen Actors Guild, Meg started using her grandmother’s maiden name Ryan. Before changing her name, she had a pretty big mouthful of name, that would’ve been pretty hard to announce at awards shows. Meg Ryan was born Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra, which is quite a name.