Ryan has been one of the most popular Irish names in America for decades; it had been in the Top 20 since 1976, and still stands at Number 26, even though parents now have such a wide choice of Irish surnames, from Flynn to Finnigan, and newer Ry names like Ryder. Ryan (born Patrick) O'Neal first brought it to light in the mid-1960s, when parents saw it as a fresher and more spirited alternative to names like Brian and Kevin. In recent years, Ryan has taken off as a girl's name.

Several male marquee Ryans still keep the name in the spotlight--think Ryan Seacrest, Ryan Reynolds, Ryan Gosling and Ryan Philippe.