Famous people have often changed their name, or used a pseudonym in public life.
They do this for various reasons: to hide their identity, to hide their ethnic origin,
to establish a 'stage name', to avoid another similar name,
or because someone else suggested a better-sounding name.
More About Real Names
Entertainers, actors, authors, singers, rappers, politicians, criminals, despots, composers, athletes ...
All are celebrities, and many use a pseudonym, nom-de-plume, nom-de-guerre, stage name, act name, nickname, or business name.
Many use their real name, but this site gives more information on the full name.
They change names to simplify, to hide their real identity, to use a nickname, to switch or hide gender,
to disguise ethnic origin or religion, to adopt a new religion or philosophy,
or simply because an agent suggests an appropriate name.
In some cases, they switched because the real name was already in use.
Real names of rappers are a special case. Most of them use a stage name, It may be a childhood nickname,
but in many cases the name is intended to show some aspect of toughness. Sometimes it is a "street name."
What criteria are used to include a name on this site? It need not be a name which is totally different from the usual public name.
Perhaps a middle name or initial is shown. Perhaps a nickname is given, or a relationship shown,
or the person has an interesting connection.
There is no guarantee that sources used are correct. Please tell us if you find errors.