Oscar-winning actress Emma Stone has expressed a desire to be called by her birth name, Emily, revealing in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter that she would prefer to use her real name both personally and professionally.
Why Emma Became Emily
The decision to reclaim her birth name stems from a personal epiphany Stone had a couple of years ago, realizing she could no longer continue using "Emma" professionally1. This shift reflects a desire for authenticity and a closer connection to her true self. Those close to Stone, including co-star Nathan Fielder, already refer to her as Emily or "Em" when they get to know her better23. The actress's preference for her given name highlights a journey of self-discovery and a wish to align her public persona with her private identity.
Choosing Emma for SAG
When Emily Stone first joined the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), she discovered that another actress was already registered under her birth name. This common occurrence in Hollywood led her to adopt the stage name "Emma Stone"12. The choice was influenced by her childhood admiration for Emma Bunton, also known as Baby Spice from the Spice Girls3. This decision, made out of necessity rather than personal preference, set the stage for a successful career under a name that would become synonymous with critically acclaimed performances and box office hits.
Reclaiming Her Birth Name
The decision to reclaim her birth name has been met with enthusiasm from Stone's fans and colleagues alike. During a press conference at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, the actress's co-star Willem Dafoe referred to her as Emily, sparking confusion among journalists1. This incident highlighted the growing acceptance of her preferred name within the industry. Stone's openness about her desire to be called Emily has also resonated with many who appreciate her authenticity and willingness to embrace her true identity in the public eye2. As she continues to navigate her career under her preferred name, it will be interesting to see how this change impacts her public image and personal fulfillment in the coming years.
Names and Identity Significance
Names hold profound significance in shaping personal and professional identities. For Emma Stone, the journey to reclaim her birth name reflects a broader theme of authenticity and self-expression in the entertainment industry. The decision to be called Emily goes beyond mere preference, touching on the complex relationship between public personas and private selves1. This shift highlights the power of names in influencing how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others, especially in the spotlight of Hollywood2. Stone's openness about her name change may inspire others to reflect on their own identities and the names they choose to embrace.
Sources:
Helen Coffey, The Independent https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/emma-stone-real-name-emily-b2536538.html
Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/movies/story/2024-04-26/emma-stone-real-name-emily-stone