The Pop Culture Effect
Pop culture has always influenced baby names, but in the age of streaming, social media, and global celebrity, its impact has never been greater. A hit TV show, a chart-topping song, or a viral TikTok trend can send a name soaring up the popularity charts overnight.
TV Shows That Shaped Names
Show Name Impact Bridgerton Daphne +20.4% annual growth Yellowstone Cowboy names Surge in "Cowboy Cool" names KPop Demon Hunters Various K-pop inspired names Stranger Things Eleven, Max Increased usage Game of Thrones Arya, Daenerys Significant spikes The Crown Charlotte, George Royal name boosts Music Stars and Names Star Name Impact Dua Lipa Dua +22.8% annual growth Beyoncé Cowboy Carter influence Western-inspired names K-pop Nana Rising in popularity Taylor Swift Taylor Continued unisex usage Rihanna Rihanna Global recognition The "Main Character Energy" Trend In 2025, experts identified a massive shift toward "Main Character Energy" and "Celestial" names. This trend reflects a cultural desire for names that feel bold, expressive, and individualistic — names that suggest your child is the protagonist of their own story.
Names in this category include:
- Aura — "Glow"
- Ayla — "Moonlight"
- Nova — "New star"
- Solstice — "Solstice"
- Elara — "Moon of Jupiter"
Fantasy and Romantasy Influence
According to experts, 2025's best-selling fantasy novels are predicted to have the biggest influence on baby names in 2026, as parents-to-be take inspiration from leading fictional characters. This includes "Tolkien-esque, Scandinavian-like, romantasy-inspired names" — names that feel epic, magical, and otherworldly.
The Decline of "Zendaya" and "Charli"
Interestingly, some pop culture names are on the decline. Nameberry's editor notes that names like Zendaya, Charli, and Kohen are losing steam. This suggests that while pop culture can launch a name, sustained popularity requires deeper resonance.
How to Use Pop Culture Wisely
- Choose names with staying power — A name from a classic book or film is more likely to endure than a name from a fleeting TikTok trend.
- Consider the association — Think about how the name will be perceived in 20 years.
- Balance with tradition — If you love a pop culture name, consider pairing it with a more traditional middle name.