Famous Women Who Did NOT Take Their Husbands' Last Names

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2023 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ – Ernest N. Morial Convention Center - Day 1

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey: Media mogul and philanthropist, has always been vocal about her decision not to change her last name. She believes that one's name carries a legacy, and hers is synonymous with empowerment, resilience, and influence. Oprah's choice has inspired countless women to embrace their own identities and stand tall in their truth.

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Jada Pinkett Smith

Jada Pinkett Smith: Actress and talk show host Jada Pinkett Smith, never adopted Will's last name. For Jada, her name represents her identity, not just as an individual but also as part of a legacy that she carries forward. By retaining her maiden name, she empowers future generations to value their own identities and histories.

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Courtney Cox

Courteney Cox: The ‘Friends’ star chose not to take her husband David Arquette's last name after marriage. Her decision reflects her belief in maintaining her identity beyond the realms of marriage. Courteney's name has become synonymous with her iconic role as “Monica Geller”, showcasing her talent and individuality in the world of entertainment.

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Tina Fey

Tina Fey: The brilliant mind behind ‘30 Rock’ and ‘Mean Girls’, maintained her maiden name even after marrying composer and producer Jeff Richmond. To her, the name 'Fey' represents the foundation of her career, a legacy built on laughter, wit, and creativity. Tina's choice serves as a reminder that one's name can be a source of artistic identity.

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Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker: ‘Sex and the City’ star Sarah Jessica Parker chose to keep her own last name after marrying actor Matthew Broderick. Her decision to retain 'Parker' speaks to the iconic status of her character, “Carrie Bradshaw”, and the cultural impact of the show. Sarah Jessica's name has become a brand in itself, symbolizing fashion, independence, and the spirit of the New York City lifestyle.

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Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek: Acclaimed actress Salma Hayek, who hails from Mexico, chose to keep her last name after marrying French billionaire François-Henri Pinault. For Salma, retaining her surname signifies a celebration of her Mexican heritage and a tribute to her family roots. In a world that often encourages assimilation, Salma stands proud, showcasing the beauty of embracing one's origins.

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Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria: ‘Desperate Housewives’ star Eva Longoria, despite her high-profile marriage to Tony Parker, opted to keep her own last name. For Eva, her name signifies independence, strength, and resilience. She believes in the power of women defining their identities on their terms, irrespective of their marital status. Eva's choice has inspired many to embrace their own names and the stories they tell.

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Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis: Daughter of Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, never changed her last name after marrying actor Christopher Guest. For Jamie, her name is a connection to her family's legacy in the entertainment industry. By retaining her maiden name, she embraces her roots while carving her path as a respected actress and advocate.

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2018 iHeartRadio Music Festival - Night 1 - Show

Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey: The iconic singer and songwriter chose to retain her maiden name even after her high-profile marriages. Mariah's name is synonymous with vocal prowess, creativity, and musical genius. By keeping her own last name, she emphasizes the importance of individual identity, especially in the face of fame and fortune.

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Mariska Hargitay

Mariska Hargitay: The ‘Law & Order: SVU’ star, daughter of Hollywood icons Jayne Mansfield and Mickey Hargitay, retained her last name even after marriage. Her choice reflects her connection to her legendary parents and the legacy they left behind.

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern relationships, the decision whether or not to change one's last name after marriage has become a personal choice rather than a societal expectation. For many women, retaining their maiden names signifies independence, identity, and a deep-rooted connection to their own family history.

Embracing Individuality in the Spotlight

Celebrities, in particular, are under constant scrutiny, making their choices in this matter even more significant. In this exploration, we delve into the lives of 10 prominent and inspiring celebrity women who decided not to take their husbands' last names, each with their unique reasons and stories.