Performers and entertainers, such as actors, comedians, singers, and musicians, adopt a stage name as a pseudonym. Professional aliases are used for a variety of reasons, and they can be similar to, or almost identical to, a person’s given name. Some performers choose to use their stage name as their legal name, which is uncommon. In some cases, a person’s professional name includes nicknames and maiden names.
Because their real name is unattractive, dull, or unintentionally amusing; projects an unfavorable image; is difficult to pronounce or spell; or is already being used by another notable individual, including names that are not the same but still too similar, a performer will frequently adopt a stage name.
Katy Perry, for example, is known by the stage name Katheryn ‘Katy’ Hudson, which would have confused actress Kate Hudson. A performer may choose an uncommon or bizarre moniker to draw attention to themselves.
Some people who are connected to celebrities use a different last name so that they do not appear to have benefited unduly from their family ties. Nicolas Cage, whose real name is Nicolas Coppola, changed his surname to avoid being mistaken for his uncle, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, who gave him his big break in the film Peggy Sue Got Married.
Actors’ guilds and associations, such as the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) in the United States and the British Actors’ Equity Association in the United Kingdom, prohibit members from using the same working name. If an actor’s name is already taken, he or she must choose a new one. Even if another member has the same stage name as you, SAG enables you to keep your legal name as your stage name if you sign a waiver.
The ease of use is another factor to consider while picking a stage name. The Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) recommends that actors choose names that are easy to say, spell, and remember. While some artists pay close attention to their skills and abilities, they overlook the impact that a well-thought-out moniker can have on their career.
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