Browse notable actors such as Woody Allen, John Belushi, and Steve Buscemi.
Browse notable film actors such as Brad Pitt, John Barrymore, and Ben Stiller.
When musicians land big fame, there typically comes a moment of reinvention in which the "rock star" identity is born. This new persona often requires a new name, a way to differentiate between the private and public versions of themselves. Musical monikers take different forms, from the simple, last-name changes aimed at boosting celebrity appeal—like Steven Tyler—to the glamorized version of a childhood nickname—like Jay-Z. Musicians' nicknames and aliases tend to take on an identity all their own over time, often becoming as full of personality as the artists they represent.
In entertainment, where the line between fiction and reality is often blurry, names are a crucial part of a celebrity's image. Stage names are often chosen to make an actor or musician's name easier to pronounce or remember, or simply to make it sounds more attractive. Here are famous celebrities who have changed their names.
Browse notable singers such as Mariah Carey, Johnny Cash, and Linda Ronstadt.
Browse notable theater actors such as Raul Julia, John Barrymore, and Sam Waterson.