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Robby Hoffman's Name Change: From Rivka Sarah to Comedy Star
17 Jun
Summary
- Comedian Robby Hoffman changed her name from Rivka Sarah for easier pronunciation.
- Her debut Netflix special, directed by John Mulaney, was released in December.
- Hoffman, raised in a Hasidic Jewish household, now embraces a more spiritual path.

Comedian Robby Hoffman recently shared the story behind her stage name, Robby, on the How God Works podcast. Born Rivka Sarah, she adopted Robby to simplify pronunciation for open mics and the entertainment industry.
Her mother initially expressed dismay, questioning why she would change such a "beautiful Jewish name." Hoffman humorously countered that her audience likely wouldn't assume she was Catholic based on her given name alone.
Hoffman, aged 36, has experienced a breakthrough year with prominent roles in HBO's 'Rooster' and 'Hacks.' Her Netflix special, 'Robby Hoffman: Wake Up,' directed by John Mulaney, was released in December.
Raised in a Hasidic Jewish household with ten siblings, Hoffman now identifies with a more spiritual outlook than organized religion. She continues to maintain her spiritual practices while embracing her identity, including her marriage to Gabby Windey.