Home / Arts and Entertainment / Keanu Reeves Resisted Pressure to Change His Name as a Young Actor
Keanu Reeves Resisted Pressure to Change His Name as a Young Actor
16 Oct, 2025
Summary
- Keanu Reeves' manager wanted him to change his name when he arrived in Hollywood at 20
- Reeves was briefly credited as "KC Reeves" before reverting to his real name
- Leonardo DiCaprio was also told to change his "too ethnic" name when starting out
In a recent interview, acclaimed actor Keanu Reeves shared a surprising story from the start of his Hollywood career. When Reeves arrived in Los Angeles at age 20, his new manager insisted that he change his name. Reeves was briefly credited as "KC Reeves" before ultimately rejecting the proposed name change and reverting to his real name.
Reeves' experience was not unique. In a separate interview, fellow actor Leonardo DiCaprio revealed that an agent had also urged him to abandon his "too ethnic" last name when he was just 12 or 13 years old. The agent suggested he go by the name "Lenny Williams" instead.
These anecdotes highlight the pressure young actors often face to conform to industry norms and expectations, even if it means abandoning their own identities. Fortunately, both Reeves and DiCaprio were able to maintain their original names and go on to become major stars. Their stories serve as a reminder of the challenges aspiring performers must navigate in pursuit of success.
