Cool Surnames of Famous Film Stars
- Valentino
- Astor
Origin:
Provençal; IcelandicMeaning:
"hawk; thunder god"Description:
Similar to the floral name Aster, this spelling derives separately from Old Provençal astur "hawk") and from the Icelandic name elements as ("god") and þor ("thunder").
- Astaire
- Bardot
Origin:
French surnameDescription:
Bardot joined the first and last names of other glamour girl icons such as (Jean) Harlow when David Boreanaz chose the surname of '50s French sex symbol Brigitte Bardot for his daughter. Bardot debuted in the US charts in 2022.
- Brando
Origin:
Italian variation of BrandMeaning:
"firebrand, sword"Description:
Screen legend Marlon's surname has loads more swagger than his first. A little Brando might have to endure references to his famous namesake, though his peers may just assume its linked to popular Brandon, with the stylish -o ending of Milo, Arlo, and Hugo.
- Bacall
- Bisset
- Bogarde
- Brynner
- Cagney
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"tribute"Description:
Cagney is one of the spunkiest Irish surnames around, and could make a lively and fresher successor to the tired Casey.
- Caine
Description:
Caine is a masculine name with multiple origins and meanings. In Welsh traditions, it derives from 'cain' meaning 'beautiful' or 'fair,' while some associate it with the biblical figure Cain. The name has gained modest popularity as a contemporary alternative to similar-sounding names like Kane or Kaine. Its single-syllable strength gives it a bold, memorable quality that appeals to parents seeking a masculine name with impact. Caine has literary and pop culture connections, appearing in works ranging from classic literature to modern films. The spelling with the '-e' ending distinguishes it slightly from the biblical Cain, potentially softening controversial associations while maintaining the name's strong sound and visual appeal.
- Chaplin
Origin:
English and French surnameMeaning:
"clergyman of a chapel"Description:
Chaplin carries two very distinctive images: the beloved Little Tramp and a minister, often to the military. It was the baby-name choice of Ever Carridine in 2010.
- Charisse
Description:
Charisse is a feminine name of French origin, considered a variation of Charissa or Charis, derived from the Greek word 'charis' meaning 'grace' or 'kindness.' The name gained recognition in America during the mid-20th century, partly due to the fame of actress and dancer Cyd Charisse. With its elegant sound and sophisticated French flair, Charisse conveys a sense of beauty and refinement. The name peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s but remains a relatively uncommon choice, making it distinctive without being completely unfamiliar. Charisse balances classic appeal with a touch of uncommon elegance, appealing to parents seeking a name that sounds graceful and sophisticated.
- Clift
Description:
Clift is a masculine name that originated as an English surname derived from geographical features, specifically referring to someone who lived near a cliff or steep slope. As a first name, Clift represents the trend of adopting surnames as given names, which became increasingly popular in the 20th century. The name gained some recognition through actor Montgomery Clift, though it remains uncommon as a first name. With its short, strong sound featuring a single syllable ending in a crisp consonant, Clift conveys a sense of ruggedness and stability—qualities associated with its geographical origins. The name offers a distinctive alternative to the more common Cliff or Clifford, with a slightly refined edge. Its rarity makes it an individualistic choice for parents seeking an uncommon name with English heritage.
- Coburn
Description:
Coburn is a masculine name of English origin, derived from an Old English surname. It likely originated as a topographical surname for someone who lived near a stream or brook, combining the elements 'col' (cool) and 'burna' (stream or brook). As a first name, Coburn has remained quite uncommon throughout history, giving it a distinguished and unique quality. It projects an image of strength and refinement with its solid consonant sounds. The name carries a sophisticated, patrician quality that evokes images of New England heritage or distinguished academics. Coburn might appeal to parents seeking a rare name with historical roots that still sounds contemporary and substantial without being flashy.
- Connery
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"warrior-lord"Description:
This appealing name of a mythical king of Tara whose reign brough prosperity to his kingdom is strongly associated with actor Sean. The Irish form is Conaire.
- Cooper
Origin:
English occupational nameMeaning:
"barrel maker"Description:
The genial yet upscale and preppy Cooper was one of the first occupational last names to catch on -- and Cooper remains a pleasing option.
- Crosby
Origin:
IrishMeaning:
"village with crosses"Description:
Crosby is an attractively laid-back Irish surname with retro musical associations to Bing and Crosby, Stills, and Nash, and with a jaunty air. Crosby Braverman was the name of a character on the TV show Parenthood, played by Dax Shepard.
- Dean
Origin:
EnglishMeaning:
"church official"Description:
Dean may sound to some like a retro surfer boy name, but it is once again climbing up the popularity chart in the USA. For decades it was associated with Dean (born Dino) Martin; more recent representatives include Dean Cain, Dean McDermott and Dean Koontz -- not to mention Jared Padalecki's dreamy Dean Forester in Gilmore Girls.
- Dietrich
Origin:
GermanMeaning:
"ruler of the people"Description:
This form of Theodoric, familiar via Marlene, is a possible German import. It is an Anglicized ancestor of Derek and all its variations. A noted bearer was acclaimed classical German baritone and conductor Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, and there have been Dietrichs in Henry James's The Princess Casamassima,/em and more recently on the TV show Psych.