Unique Hollywood Names

Burton originated as a habitation surname that now feels like a appropriate first. Actor Richard Burton, two-time husband of Elizabeth Taylor, was the most famous bearer. Burtie makes an adorable short form.

Variation of Cluny best only if you're a major George fan. And even then, better go with George, Georgia, or Georgiana.

Connelly is an open, inviting, and rarely used Irish surname that can make a perfect alternative to the overused Connor or Colin for a boy.

Damon is a name with a strong, pleasing aura (much like the persona of Matt D.) and extremely positive ancient associations. From the classical myth, Damon and Pythias have become symbols of true friendship, as Damon risked his life to save his friend from execution. And Damon of Athens was the fifth century philosopher who taught both Pericles and Socrates.

Fallon was one of the first of the unisex surname names, but thanks to "Dynasty" in the 1980s it now has a feminine image. For a boy, try Phelan instead.

Ferrell is a masculine surname-turned-first-name with Irish and Gaelic origins. It derives from the Irish 'Fearghal,' meaning 'man of valor' or 'brave warrior.' As a first name, Ferrell gained some recognition in the United States during the mid-20th century but has always remained relatively uncommon. The name has a strong, distinctive sound with its two syllables and emphasis on the first syllable. Contemporary associations include comedian Will Ferrell, which may influence some parents' perception of the name. Ferrell works well as a given name because it sounds familiar due to its surname usage while still feeling distinctive as a first name. It appeals to parents looking for a name with Celtic heritage and strong meaning without being overly popular.

Linked to one of the great screen beauties, but has never appealed much to Americans.

Sean and Robin Wright Penn chose this name for their son to honor their friend Dennis Hopper; others might associate it with the painter Edward. Couldn't be more spirited.

Jolie is as pretty as its literal meaning; nowadays it is also seen as a girls’ name, via Angelina for whom Jolie was originally her middle name.

Liev Schreiber's birth name is Isaac Liev, Liev after his mother's favorite Russia author, Leo Tolstoy. Though Liev is increasing in popularity in the secular world thanks to the actor, it originated as a Yiddish diminutive.

This lively pet name has recently been associated with Mexican-born Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong'o, acclaimed for her role in the 2013 film Twelve Years a Slave.

The mother name Guadalupe, literally "valley of the wolves," relates to Our Lady of Guadalupe, revered in Latino culture as a protector of the Mexican people.

Actress Hargitay made us notice this one, it makes a robust, energetic Slavic impression.

Meryl is a name that's at once rare and famous, thanks to Meryl (born Mary Louise) Streep. Streep's name is an invented short form of Mary Louise, but Meryl might also be a contraction of the unique Irish name Meriel.