African-American Actors Who Changed Their Names For Hollywood

Professional stage names are a common tool in the entertainment industry for actors looking to create a unique brand or simplify their public identity. For many African-American men in Hollywood, adopting a pseudonym has been a strategic move to transition from music to film or to stand out in casting calls. These changes often reflect personal histories, nicknames from childhood, or artistic personas developed early in their careers. The following list details the real names and stories behind some of the most recognizable men in film and television.

Jamie Foxx

Born Eric Marlon Bishop, this Academy Award winner adopted his stage name during his early days performing stand-up comedy. He noticed that female comedians were often called to the stage first at open mic nights so he chose a gender-neutral name to increase his chances of performing. His choice of Foxx was also a tribute to the legendary comedian Redd Foxx. This strategic change helped launch a career that spans critically acclaimed roles in films like ‘Ray’ and ‘Django Unchained’.

Mahershala Ali

Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore was named after the longest name in the Bible by his mother. He decided to shorten his professional name to Mahershala Ali because the full version was too long to fit on movie posters and marquees. He felt the abbreviated version maintained the spiritual significance of his birth name while making it easier for audiences to remember. This change proved effective as he went on to win two Oscars for his performances in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Green Book’.

Idris Elba

Idrissa Akuna Elba shortened his first name to Idris upon starting his acting career in London. He made this adjustment to simplify the pronunciation for casting directors and audiences in the United Kingdom and later in the United States. The actor grew up in Hackney and began auditioning for roles in his early twenties before landing his breakout role on ‘The Wire’. His commanding screen presence has since made him a leading man in major blockbusters.

Ice Cube

O’Shea Jackson adopted his cool moniker from a threat his older brother made to slam him into a freezer. The name perfectly suited the tough and stoic persona he cultivated as a member of N.W.A. and later as a solo artist. He carried this recognizable brand into Hollywood where he became a successful actor and producer. He is now widely known for writing and starring in the ‘Friday’ film franchise and appearing in family comedies.

Ice-T

Tracy Lauren Marrow took his stage name as a tribute to the pimp and author Iceberg Slim. He recited sections of Slim’s novels to friends and they eventually began calling him Ice-T to honor his ability to mimic the style. This persona helped him pioneer gangsta rap before he transitioned into a stable acting career. He is now best known to television audiences for his long-running role as Detective Fin Tutuola on ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’.

LL Cool J

James Todd Smith adopted a name that stands for Ladies Love Cool James at the very beginning of his rap career. The nickname was conceived by the artist and his friend as they sought a catchy handle for his demo tapes. This youthful confidence translated well into his acting endeavors as he took on roles in action films and sitcoms. He eventually secured a permanent spot on primetime television as Sam Hanna in ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’.

Common

Lonnie Rashid Lynn originally performed under the name Common Sense before he was forced to shorten it due to a lawsuit from a reggae band. The shortened moniker allowed him to maintain his established identity while evolving as an artist and actor. He has built a diverse filmography that includes roles in ‘Selma’ and ‘John Wick: Chapter 2’. His work often bridges the gap between his conscious hip-hop roots and dramatic storytelling.

Ludacris

Christopher Brian Bridges chose his stage name as a play on the word ludicrous to describe his wild and animated personality. He felt the name captured the split between his calm real-life demeanor and his energetic performance style. This branding helped him stand out in the music industry before he became a staple in the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. His role as Tej Parker has made him a globally recognized action star.

50 Cent

Curtis James Jackson III adopted the name 50 Cent as a metaphor for change and survival. He was inspired by a Kelvin Martin who was a Brooklyn robber known by the same nickname in the eighties. The name represented his desire to turn his life around and succeed against the odds in the music business. He leveraged his massive musical fame to produce and star in the hit television series ‘Power’.

Snoop Dogg

Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. was given the nickname Snoopy by his parents because of his resemblance to the famous cartoon beagle. He adopted the stage name Snoop Doggy Dogg when he began recording with Dr. Dre and later shortened it to Snoop Dogg. His laid-back persona and distinctive voice made him a natural fit for various film cameos and voice acting roles. He remains a cultural icon who effortlessly moves between music and entertainment ventures.

Redd Foxx

John Elroy Sanford chose his stage name as a tribute to baseball player Jimmie Foxx and because of his reddish hair and complexion. He served as a major inspiration for generations of comedians who admired his timing and delivery. His most iconic role was Fred Sanford in the sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’ which cemented his legacy in television history. The name Foxx became synonymous with grumpy but lovable characters.

Spike Lee

Shelton Jackson Lee was given the nickname Spike by his mother when he was a toddler because he was a tough baby. He kept the name as he grew into a fiercely independent filmmaker and actor known for tackling controversial social issues. His works often feature him in supporting roles that highlight his distinct acting style. He has become one of the most influential directors in American cinema history with films like ‘Do the Right Thing’.

Vin Diesel

Mark Sinclair created the name Vin Diesel while working as a bouncer at New York City nightclubs. Vin is a shortened version of his stepfather’s surname Vincent and Diesel referred to his non-stop energy on the job. This tough exterior helped him land roles in action-heavy films like ‘Pitch Black’ and ‘xXx’. He is now the face of the massive ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise and a major Hollywood producer.

Scatman Crothers

Benjamin Sherman Crothers received his nickname because of his ability to sing scat famously well. He began his career as a musician and drummer before transitioning into acting for film and television. Horror fans recognize him for his pivotal role as Dick Hallorann in Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’. His distinct voice also made him a favorite for animated characters such as Hong Kong Phooey.

Harry Belafonte

Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. anglicized his surname to Belafonte to better navigate the entertainment industry of the mid-twentieth century. He used his platform as a singer and actor to fight for civil rights and social justice. His acting career includes notable films such as ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Island in the Sun’. He remained a dignified and powerful force in Hollywood until his passing.

John Legend

John Roger Stephens was given the nickname Legend by poet J. Ivy because his music sounded like it came from an old-school legend. He initially hesitated to use it but eventually embraced the moniker as his career began to take off. The name set a high bar that he successfully met by becoming an EGOT winner. He has appeared in films like ‘La La Land’ and starred in live televised musicals.

Jason Derulo

Jason Joel Desrouleaux simplified the spelling of his French-Creole surname to make it easier for American audiences to read and pronounce. He started as a songwriter before launching a massive solo career defined by catchy pop hits and dance skills. His acting ventures include the film adaptation of the musical ‘Cats’. He continues to be a major presence on social media and reality television competitions.

Ne-Yo

Shaffer Chimere Smith received the moniker Ne-Yo from a producer who compared his ability to see music to the character Neo from ‘The Matrix’. The name stuck and became the banner under which he wrote hit songs for others and released his own platinum albums. He has also pursued acting with roles in ‘Stomp the Yard’ and ‘Red Tails’. His smooth style works well in both musical performances and dramatic scenes.

T.I.

Clifford Joseph Harris Jr. originally performed under the name T.I.P. which was a childhood nickname from his grandfather. He shortened it to T.I. to avoid confusion with fellow rapper Q-Tip upon signing his first major record deal. He calls himself the King of the South and has built an acting resume that includes ‘Ant-Man’ and ‘American Gangster’. His reality show also introduced his family life to a broader audience.

Drake

Aubrey Drake Graham dropped his first name to perform simply as Drake when he transitioned from acting to music. He first gained fame as Jimmy Brooks on the Canadian teen drama ‘Degrassi: The Next Generation’ using his full birth name. As a rapper he became one of the best-selling music artists in history. He continues to produce television series such as ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Top Boy’.

The Weeknd

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye adopted the name The Weeknd after he and a friend left school one weekend and never returned home. He dropped the last letter e to avoid copyright issues with a Canadian band already named The Weekend. His cinematic music videos often feature him acting out dark narratives. He made his major acting debut in the television series ‘The Idol’ which he also co-created.

André 3000

André Lauren Benjamin added the number 3000 to his first name to signify his futuristic approach to music and fashion. As one half of the duo OutKast he pushed the boundaries of hip-hop before taking on acting roles. He starred as Jimi Hendrix in the biopic ‘Jimi: All Is by My Side’. He is known for being selective with his projects and maintaining a mysterious public profile.

Method Man

Clifford Smith Jr. took the name Method Man from the 1979 kung fu film ‘The Fearless Young Boxer’. He was the first member of the Wu-Tang Clan to release a solo album and establish a mainstream presence. His charisma led to a successful acting partnership with Redman and serious roles in shows like ‘The Wire’. He currently stars in the ‘Power’ spin-off series exhibiting his range as a dramatic actor.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric Antonio Kyles adopted the handle Cedric the Entertainer to signal that he was a versatile performer who could do more than just tell jokes. He wanted promoters to know that he could sing, dance, and act as part of his set. This branding proved accurate as he became one of the Original Kings of Comedy and a sitcom star. He has done extensive voice work for the ‘Madagascar’ franchise and starred in the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’.

Steve Harvey

Broderick Stephen Harvey dropped his first name to use his more common middle name for his entertainment career. He started as a stand-up comedian before becoming a sitcom star and eventually a media mogul. He is best known today as the host of ‘Family Feud’ and various talk shows. His brand is built on his relatable humor and advice on relationships and success.

Pooch Hall

Marion H. Hall Jr. has been called Pooch since he was a child because his father was the neighborhood mailman and they were jokingly called the dog and the pooch. He kept the childhood nickname as his professional name when he entered Hollywood. He is best known for his role as Derwin Davis on the long-running series ‘The Game’. He also appeared in the drama series ‘Ray Donovan’.

Laz Alonso

Lázaro Alonso shortened his first name to Laz to make it more accessible for the American entertainment market. He worked on Wall Street as an investment banker before deciding to pursue acting full-time. His career includes roles in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Fast & Furious’. He currently stars as Mother’s Milk in the hit superhero satire series ‘The Boys’.

Boris Kodjoe

Boris Frederic Cecil Tay-Natey Ofuatey-Kodjoe simplifies his full name to Boris Kodjoe for his professional credits. He was a professional tennis player before an injury led him to modeling and eventually acting. He became a heartthrob through his roles in ‘Brown Sugar’ and the television series ‘Soul Food’. He often works alongside his wife Nicole Ari Parker in various film and television projects.

Bernie Mac

Bernard Jeffrey McCullough was known to the world as Bernie Mac a name he solidified on the comedy circuit. He started his career in Chicago parks before gaining national attention with ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ tour. The moniker became the title of his long-running sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ which was loosely based on his life. His film roles included ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Transformers’ before his untimely death.

Ving Rhames

Irving Rameses Rhames shortened his first name to Ving at the suggestion of a college roommate who felt Irving was not distinct enough. He trained at the Juilliard School of Drama before embarking on a prolific career in film and theater. He is perhaps best known for his role as Marsellus Wallace in ‘Pulp Fiction’. He is also a staple of the ‘Mission: Impossible’ franchise where he plays Luther Stickell.

Taye Diggs

Scott Leo Diggs acquired the nickname Taye from his friends playfully saying Scott-Taye instead of Scotty. The name stuck and he used it professionally as he began his career in Broadway theatre. He gained major recognition for his role in the original production of ‘Rent’ and the film ‘How Stella Got Her Groove Back’. He continues to be a prominent figure in television dramas and romantic comedies.

Michael Ealy

Michael Brown adopted the stage name Michael Ealy to avoid confusion with other actors and public figures with his common birth name. He began his acting career in the late nineties and gained recognition for his role in the ‘Barbershop’ film series. His piercing blue eyes and dramatic range have made him a favorite in films like ‘Think Like a Man’. He regularly stars in television thrillers and dramas.

Hill Harper

Francis Eugene Harper accepted the name Hill as a tribute to his ancestors and to create a unique identity. He is an Ivy League graduate who chose acting over a legal career after earning degrees from Brown and Harvard. He became a household name through his role as Dr. Sheldon Hawkes on ‘CSI: NY’. In addition to acting he is a best-selling author and political activist.

Leon

Leon Robinson chose to perform under the mononym Leon to distinguish himself in the industry. He became a sex symbol and critical darling in the nineties with roles in ‘The Five Heartbeats’ and ‘Cool Runnings’. His portrayal of singers like David Ruffin and Little Richard showcased his ability to embody complex musical figures. He continues to act and produce music with his band.

JB Smoove

Jerry Angelo Brooks adopted the name JB Smoove as a description of his dance style and comedic delivery. He started as a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’ before breaking out as a performer. His improvised role as Leon Black on ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ brought him widespread acclaim. He is now a ubiquitous presence in commercials and comedy films.

Katt Williams

Micah Sierra Williams uses the stage name Katt Williams for his stand-up comedy and acting endeavors. He began his career in his teens and quickly gained a reputation for his high-energy performances and pimp persona. He became a breakout star in the film ‘Friday After Next’ playing the character Money Mike. Despite various controversies he remains a top-selling touring comedian.

Lil Rel Howery

Milton Howery Jr. was given the nickname Lil Rel by his cousin to distinguish him from his father who was Big Rel. He built his career in the Chicago comedy scene before landing a role on ‘The Carmichael Show’. His breakout film performance came as the TSA agent Rod Williams in the horror hit ‘Get Out’. He has since become a reliable comedic actor in major studio films.

D.L. Hughley

Darryl Lynn Hughley uses his initials D.L. as his professional handle in the entertainment world. He was one of the four comedians featured in ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ documentary. He starred in his own sitcom ‘The Hughleys’ which ran for four seasons and focused on a suburban black family. He is also a prominent radio host and political commentator.

Sinbad

David Adkins adopted the name Sinbad in honor of the legendary sailor because he admired the character’s adventurous spirit. He began his comedy career on ‘Star Search’ where he defeated Dennis Miller. He became a major television star in the nineties on the sitcom ‘A Different World’ and his own show. He also starred in family films like ‘First Kid’ and ‘Jingle All the Way’.

Mr. T

Lawrence Tureaud legally changed his name to Mr. T in 1980 so that people would be forced to address him with respect. He worked as a bodyguard for high-profile celebrities before being discovered by Sylvester Stallone for ‘Rocky III’. His role as B.A. Baracus in ‘The A-Team’ made him an international pop culture icon. He is known for his trademark gold chains and mohawk hairstyle.

Nas

Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones shortened his first name to Nas when he began his recording career. While primarily known as one of the greatest rappers of all time he has also cultivated an acting career. He starred in the visually stunning film ‘Belly’ alongside DMX. He also appeared in ‘Ticker’ and served as an executive producer on ‘The Get Down’.

DMX

Earl Simmons performed under the name DMX which stood for Dark Man X and was also a reference to the Oberheim DMX drum machine. He was known for his raw energy and gruff voice which translated well to action cinema. He starred in major films such as ‘Romeo Must Die’ and ‘Cradle 2 the Grave’ alongside Jet Li. His acting roles often mirrored the intensity of his musical persona.

Xzibit

Alvin Nathaniel Joiner uses the stage name Xzibit which he adopted during his early days in the underground hip-hop scene. He gained mainstream fame as the host of the MTV show ‘Pimp My Ride’ where his charisma shined. His acting career includes a prominent role as Shyne Johnson in the drama ‘Empire’. He also appeared in films like ‘Gridiron Gang’ alongside Dwayne Johnson.

Tell us in the comments which of these male actors you think has the most interesting story behind their name change.