Mr. T: My Name Is Respect, Not a Nickname

Actor Mr. T, 74, revealed the powerful origins behind his adopted name in Netflix's 'Untold Mr. T: I Pity The Fool.' Growing up in Chicago as Lawrence Tureaud, he witnessed firsthand the disrespect faced by Black men, including his father being called 'boy.' This fueled his decision at 18 to officially change his name to Mr. T, a deliberate act to command respect.

He explained that the name 'Mr. T' serves as a tribute to his father, uncles, and other Black men who were denied basic dignity. This powerful assertion of identity is legally recognized, with 'Mr. T' appearing on his birth certificate, passport, and tax documents. He emphasized that it is not a nickname but his given legal name, a deliberate choice made to counter racism and reclaim respect. He recalled challenging David Letterman on his show when asked for his 'real name,' asserting 'Mister' was his first name. The name change was solidified in 1970 and has been consistently used by institutions like the IRS and even the White House, signifying its legitimacy and Mr. T's unwavering stance.